Fireflies childcare at Gildredge House

Safeguarding is the decisive issue here. At its February 2026 inspection, Ofsted found safeguarding standards not met and graded leadership and governance Urgent improvement because staff knowledge and leaders’ oversight were insufficient, putting children at significant risk of harm. The requirements of both the compulsory and voluntary Childcare Registers were also not met in February 2026.

Fireflies childcare at Gildredge House has capacity for 24 children in Eastbourne. In February 2026, the children attending were aged 4 to 11: the account below concerns that school-age provision, rather than establishing an offer for babies or toddlers.

In February 2026, activities combined quieter indoor play with energetic time outdoors. Children used tabletop games, made artwork and played together outside. This gave the sessions different rhythms, with opportunities both to concentrate and to spend time with friends.

The early years foundation stage provides the required framework for learning, development and care; in February 2026, word of the week, conversations about gratitude and trying unfamiliar foods helped broaden children’s experiences and understanding.

At the February 2026 inspection, Ofsted graded behaviour, attitudes and establishing routines Strong standard, and both inclusion and children’s welfare and wellbeing Expected standard, finding warm relationships, effective routines and support for individual needs.

In February 2026, practical support included noise-cancelling headphones, picture-symbol lanyards and individual assistance for some children moving to and from the group room. These arrangements helped children communicate and participate. Collection used a password system, while staff monitored movement between indoor and outdoor areas.

Fruit and vegetables were among the snacks served in February 2026, alongside light meals such as wraps or hot dogs. Sessions included active play and encouragement to drink water.

Those everyday arrangements must be weighed alongside the safeguarding finding. In February 2026, leaders relied on completed training without adequately checking staff understanding of warning signs or when concerns needed referral to the relevant agency.

The address is Gildredge House, Compton Place Road, Eastbourne, BN20 8AB. In February 2026, opening hours were Monday to Friday, 3pm to 6pm.

The safeguarding action required staff to gain the knowledge and skills to recognise concerns and make timely referrals, with a completion deadline of 3 April 2026. That deadline is past; it is not an upcoming improvement timetable.

• Safeguarding. Safeguarding standards were not met in February 2026, with children placed at significant risk of harm. This should carry decisive weight in a childcare decision.
• Leadership accountability. Leadership and governance required Urgent improvement in February 2026 because oversight did not establish that staff understood their safeguarding responsibilities. Families need to weigh this alongside the positive accounts of daily interactions.
• A visit with a clear purpose. What practical changes now ensure staff recognise safeguarding concerns and refer them promptly? Make this the central question when visiting.

The February 2026 account describes activities suited to school-age children who enjoy shared games, creative work and outdoor play. Warm relationships and thoughtful individual support were evident, but the safeguarding failure prevents a favourable recommendation. For families considering this setting, protection from harm must take precedence over the appeal of its activities.