Work Matters: Management focus - Upstairs, downstairs?

There are lots of hot topics being discussed in the sector at the moment - literacy targets in the EYFS, changes to free entitlement funding. But recently the big issue for me has been whether a nursery's baby room must always be on the ground floor.

I'm now working on another start-up project with a lovely couple who want to convert their detached house into an 18-place nursery. It's small, but will be very homely. I was struck by its potential on my first visit and immediately envisaged the large lounge and dining room (on the ground floor) being utilised as a 'Family Room', with ample space for 12 two- to five-year-olds who would benefit from free-flow access to the conservatory and garden beyond.

Upstairs would be designated as the baby unit, with an archway being knocked through between the cosy bedrooms to create inter-joining cot and play areas. This seemed a clever way to maximise the space and accommodate six under-twos comfortably.

But is it OK to plan for the youngest children to be cared for on the first floor? Or should safety concerns, such as problems evacuating babies in an emergency, dictate that they must be downstairs? There are serious implications for capacity and sustainability if they do. But of course, serious risks must be avoided.

It's not a decision to take lightly, and cases like these need time to debate issues and shape policy. Together we've consulted the local early years advisor and fire officer, and decided that the risks involved can be managed.

Our rationale is that overall numbers are low, and upstairs will operate with a staff ratio of 1:2. The manager's office is also on the first floor, so she will be deployed to the baby room if something happens. Exits are clear and adequate and only involve short distances. Fire extinguishers and alarms will of course be installed, as well as torches for emergency lighting.

With the help of our health and safety expert, we're now drawing up full risk assessments and clear evacuation procedures. These will form part of staff inductions, and regular drills will be held. So we move forward with confidence that risks have been thought through and appropriate measures will be in place to ensure safety. When it comes to the registration visits, our clients will be ready to defend the decision and highlight the positive outcomes achieved as a result.

- Derek Hayes is a senior consultant/trainer at the Childcare Consultancy.

For more information e-mail info@childcareconsult.co.uk.