Britannia School Age Child Care

• NUTRITION AND FOOD SERVICES / NutritionNon-critical

  Instructions in a child's record or care plan respecting food and drink for the child are followed. [CCLR Sec.48(2)]

  Observation. Care plans for medication and dietary needs are posted for all children in the preschool / OSC room on the front of the fridge. There are 11 such care plans in total between the preschool and out of school care. Spirit Bear room, two situations were identified as requiring immediate action. One child's care plan states the epipen expired in August 2023, epipen in the school age room expired July 2025. Lead staff stated they spoke with the family in October 2025 and there has been no response. This child is allergic to peanuts, a common allergen. Manager and lead staff stated they would immediately contact the family and ascertain what the issue is. In the meantime, staff will be vigilant re child and potential exposure. I noted that in most cases care is suspended until an epipen is in place. I shared options that other programs consider if there is an economic (or some other) barrier to providing epipen. Noted that family must always complete care plan with consent for administration, even if the program provides epipen. Manager stated they would further discuss the issue of epipens with the Licensee representative. Second child's care plan states medication for asthma expired November 2024, the puffer chamber is present at out of school care but no medication. Lead staff did not have additional information on this. Reminded Lead staff that we had conversations regarding children's medication and care plans during past routine inspections, including December 2021 and November 2024. Lead staff and manager will follow up immediately with second family.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / EnvironmentNon-critical

  The facility, the furniture, equipment, fixtures and supplies are of sturdy and safe construction.  They are easy to clean, and are clean and in good repair and free from hazards. [CCLR Sec. 13(2) and Sec. 15(1)(a)]

  Observation. As noted previously, the buildings are aging and maintenance is a key factor in ensuring longevity. The preschool / out of school care room & the Spirit Bear room are heavily used year-round with multiple users and shows wear. Observed changes in furnishings and evidence of an evolving revisioning of the space. More attention to creating cozy spaces, protected areas for play, modular furnishings that open up possibilities and flexibility. Manager informed me the preschool/ out of school care room is to be painted over the winter break. To prepare for this work, it is critical that a deep cleaning of the space occur prior to painting. Many of the upper and hard to reach spaces in the room have not been cleaned in years. Thick dust is apparent on top of tall ledges and above cabinetry. Some of these areas are to be painted. Facilities cannot paint over dust. Lighting fixtures require cleaning throughout. In particular, the orange light covers are coated in thick fuzzy dust. Some children in care have asthma and dust is a trigger. Some fluorescents in the preschool / out of school care room are missing safety covers. This is a safety hazard. If an object were to fly up, the small pieces of glass could cause serious injury to children and staff. Blinds have not been cleaned since purchase. Hand prints and finger marks are visible. Dust is an issue. In the recessed play area with bay window, the carpeted bench seating requires deep cleaning and assessment for replacement or repair, especially the carpeted bench near the window (fraying of carpet is evident). Long cushions and covers require attention – cleaning and repair / replacement. Ensure that any cushions have removable washable covers. Preschool / OSC Washroom – Condition of the washroom tiles has been cited since 2024. Condition is worsening, especially alongside the east wall behind and around the toilets, i.e. hard to reach areas. During November 2024, there was discussion re planning for flooring replacement by end of 2027. In the meantime, special attention should be paid to the tiles surrounding toilets to ensure that lifting tiles are not leading to water / urine egress. Manager pointed out that newly replaced toilet in November 2024 does not appear to have been sealed around the base. This must be followed up to extend the longevity of the flooring and to prevent rot. Out of School Care – Spirit Bear room / preteen room – This is another activity room with multiple users and heavy wear. Manager and staff spoke of need for refurbishing and expanding on soft furnishings. The couch cushions are lumpy and require replacement. When cushions are replaced, new covers must be removable and washable. Staff lead spoke of need for more soft modular items that children can lounge on and manipulate. Noted that children were currently lying on the floor and using the one yoga ball for comfort. Some of the furnishings are well made but extremely difficult to move. A suggestion may be placing the well-constructed shelving onto sturdy and lockable road castors. The Eastside Family Place is used as the primary base Monday, Wednesday and Fridays for the youngest group, K and grade one. Eastside Family Place is in satisfactory condition. The Elementary School gymnasium is used as the primary base for the youngest group, Tuesday and Thursdays. All of the out of school care children have access to the GYM as an indoor active play area during the rest of the week. At times when there is another user booked, the curtain is pulled across to divide the licensed child care from the other users. Other days the licensed child care has full use of both sides of the gym with activities set up on one side and gross motor play on the other. Note the gym is heavily used by school and community with programs for all ages including young toddlers to seniors The gym is in fair condition - with the following exceptions - wall mounted mats on either side of the gym are torn with the foam exposed, rope on foldable climbing frame is fraying and the resilient ground mats below the foldable climbing frame are showing considerable wear (the vinyl cover on two of the mats are clearly ripped and exposing the compressed foam underneath - not able to clean and sanitize). The condition of the east washroom (marked women's) is in stark contrast with the west washroom (marked men's) - east has peeling paint, and loose molding falling off the wall. The west washroom is in satisfactory condition. The wood entry doors to the gym off the outside courtyard from the school and the doors to crawl space storage are chipped with rough edges on the bottom due to wear and impact. Observed that other doors in the gym have metal plates on the bottom to prevent such damage. CCFL acknowledges that the above work will require liaising with VSB and community centre re responsibility and funding.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / Play Area, Materials and EquipmentNon-critical

  The entire outdoor play area is enclosed and constructed in a manner that is suitable for the age and development of children, and ensures that children are free of harm. [CCLR Sec. 16(3)(a)(b)]

  Observation. The outdoor courtyard is a shared space, used by Eastside Family Place, Britannia Preschool and School Age Care. Shared history with current Manager as well as discussion had with previous Manager re plans to revision the court yard. Discussed the importance of situating repair and replacement of particular elements of the yard within an overall cohesive plan. This way phases of work can take place, adding to the vision, without interfering or disrupting requirements to support the cohesive whole. In the meantime, bandaids continue to ensure safety and compliance with Child Care Licensing Requirements. There is a new mural along the east wall of the courtyard. An Indigenous artist worked with the children in creating the mural. The mural was inspired by a book the children were researching - To Be A Good Ancestor. Reviewed the pedagogical documentation. Manager informed me of how children participated in selecting the colours and some elements of the mural, e.g. butterflies. The children helped stencil butterflies on the boat in the yard with the artist as well. A blessing ceremony is upcoming where the children, families and Britannia community will welcome and bless the mural. Manager and I discussed the need to monitor rotting wood elements within the yard. Only one safety issue was apparent at this time. Manager pointed it out to me - a gap between the sand retaining wall and driftwood lower rail enclosure causing a tripping hazard. This can be addressed by inserting something in or other ways of closing the gap. Observed that most of the vegetation has been neglected and died (prior to change of seasons). The plant boxes used to include a range of hardy plantings and edible plants. It is time for the planted areas to be reanimated to meet original approved intent and ongoing compliance with Schedule G. Discussed with Manager opportunities to work with Indigenous knowledge keepers in revisioning the planted areas and choice of vegetation. During past inspections, the school age care used the court yard, school grounds, community centre space just outside the Spirit Bear room and Grandview Park for active outdoor play. This use of community spaces does not appear to be happening. Discussed with Lead staff and Manager. See other sections for comments.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / Safe Play Space Standard of PracticeNon-critical

  Maintenance of Equipment: Thorough inspections of the outdoor play space are conducted regularly. [Director of Licensing Standard of Practice - Safe Play Space] (13)

  Observation. See previous comments and comments below.

• PROGRAM / Program of activitiesNon-critical

  Children are provided with a comprehensive and coordinated program of indoor and outdoor activities that is designed for the development and care of the children, and is appropriate for the age and development of the children. [CCLR Sec. 44(1)(a)(b)(c) and Schedule(G)]

  Observation. Manager reported that they had started having children sign up for clubs. Each child signs up at the beginning of the week and staff plan activities accordingly. Some clubs offered include Engineering club, Chess club, Sewing, cooking/ baking and lego club. Observed the materials prepared for an Club activity in the K/ gr. 1 group. Manager stated that Art and time to relax is offered across all groups. Manager stated the School Age program has done some culling and now all outdoor equipment left is in satisfactory supply and stored in the crawl space area of the gym. Observed that a number of the children from the older and middle groups attended Red Fox in the gym today. Disco light work was projected on the wall and music was playing. Staff accompanied and stayed with the children. Children were clustered around and seemed enthusiastic about activities. Discussed outdoor play with lead staff and Manager. Also inquired with another staff team member. Noted playground inspections had not been recorded for one month (none for October or November). I wondered what this was about. Previous inspections, CCFL noted outdoor play was provided daily (unless monsoon or icy) across the rooms. Were the staff taking children out but not recording or were the children going outside? Lead staff and one other staff stated most days the gym was used versus the court yard and adjacent park or school playground. Lead staff stated gym use was due to staff preference and other staff I spoke with concurred this was an ongoing issue. Lead staff said that staff team does not want to be outside in the rain or cold. Lead staff noted that the clubs were now the focus. I reminded lead staff that outdoor play is a requirement, that cool weather or occasional drizzle should not prevent children accessing outdoor play and that outdoor play could be done as well as the clubs. I remarked that so far I had not heard of any club with an outdoor focus, perhaps this could change. Lead staff stated it was hard to convince staff of the need for outdoor play but that he would remind staff of regulatory requirements. Lead staff stated that they themselves were committed to outdoor play. (This is consistent with past visits.) After this conversation, late in the session, I observed some children out in the courtyard playing flashlight tag with lead staff and another staff. Raised the issue of outdoor play with Manager. While Active Play standard may be met with Gym use, it is questionable that each child would have access on a daily basis (between three groupings). Plus, outdoor play is a daily requirement unless weather does not permit (e.g. downpour/ icy -20). Reviewed how community spaces have been used by School Age program in the past. Manager stated their commitment to following up to ensure compliance. After this inspection, I was left questioning whether outdoor play requirements are being met. The CCLR cites that each child is to be provided with daily outdoor play periods. Between this observation, conversations with lead/ staff and the lack of playground inspections, it is clear that required outdoor play opportunities are not being provided. Lead staff and manager stated they would follow up.

• PROGRAM / Program of activitiesNon-critical

  Each child is provided with daily outdoor play periods unless weather conditions make it unreasonable to do so. [CCLR Sec.44(3)]

  Observation. See discussion above and regulatory requirements.

• RECORDS AND REPORTING / Safe Play Space Standard of PracticeNon-critical

  Maintenance of Equipment: A log is kept of all inspections, maintenance and repairs. [Director of Licensing Standard of Practice - Safe Play Space]

  Observation. Space is provided on attendance sheet for marking daily playground inspections. Lead staff confirmed this is still the practice. Reviewed attendance sheets and noted that playground inspections (either courtyard or community / school space) have not been recorded for over a month. See earlier comments in this inspection report. Lead staff reported the playground inspections were not occurring because staff were not taking the children outside. Manager stated they would follow up to ensure both outdoor play and playground inspections were happening within compliance with the CCLR.

No violations recorded at this inspection.

• NUTRITION AND FOOD SERVICES / NutritionNon-critical

  Instructions in a child's record or care plan respecting food and drink for the child are followed. [CCLR Sec.48(2)]

  Observation. Care plans are in place for children in the 5-8 and Spirit Bear rooms. Care plans are posted for easy reference. There is a system where the "medication follows the children." Epipens and or puffers are kept in individual fanny packs that hang off the centre back packs. If the child is in attendance the fanny packs remain clipped to the back pack and follow the child. If not, the fanny packs are left safely in the room then clipped onto the back pack after use. Any child who brings medication in their backpack is checked on arrival. Reviewed care plans associated with medication, including epipens and asthma meds. Each child requiring a care plan has one in place. There was one epipen that was out of date. Lead staff will follow up with the family immediately. Lead staff will also review the care plans posted to ensure the expiry dates are consistent with the medication on hand.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / EnvironmentNon-critical

  The facility, the furniture, equipment, fixtures and supplies are of sturdy and safe construction.  They are easy to clean, and are clean and in good repair and free from hazards. [CCLR Sec. 13(2) and Sec. 15(1)(a)]

  Observation. Overall the program is proactive in addressing maintenance issues. During recent preschool inspection, Manager pointed out the work that had been done since the last routine inspection. 5- 8 room / shared with preschool program - Manager remarked on the aging flooring. The wear is most evident at the main entrance and, especially, the washroom. The washroom flooring is stained and aged to the point where it is difficult to remove stains. CCFL strongly recommends the facility plan for replacing the flooring throughout the preschool within the next 2-3 years, with a priority on the washroom flooring. One of the washroom stalls is blocked off with caution tape/ door shut. Manager explained that the toilet tank lid was broken and on order. Manager thought it had been a month or two since the order was placed. Spirit Bear / preteen room Spoke with staff member regarding the condition of the bulletin board and the arts/ crafts table. The arts/ crafts table is still sturdy but the top is looking worn, cut and stained. The finish is wearing off such that it may be difficult to ensure the top can be clean and sanitary for serving / consuming snack. Suggested a deep clean of the table top with a scrub brush and bleach based cleanser. The condition can then be monitored to determine if it requires replacement.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / Play Area, Materials and EquipmentNon-critical

  The entire outdoor play area is enclosed and constructed in a manner that is suitable for the age and development of children, and ensures that children are free of harm. [CCLR Sec. 16(3)(a)(b)]

  Observation. During the November 6, 2024 preschool routine inspection, it was noted the outdoor courtyard is in need of attention. Manager spoke to long range plans to revision the yard. In the meantime "band aids" will be applied to aging elements. The sand box has been blocked off and is not in use due to hazards. The sides of the seating storage unit have broken off and need repair. The frame for the trellis will require removal by December 2025, it is starting to become unstable. The grey cement wall barrier along the bike path and the deck requires attention - the paint is peeling. An indigenous artist will be working with the program to paint the boat and redo the mural in the court yard. Manager noted the poured in place areas continue to pool with rain water during rainy days. Discussed how the staff teams' lived experience in the yard will inform the revision-ing. The school age program uses the court yard as well as Grandview Park next door. Observed that the retaining board along the boardwalk next to the toddler play structure has come away and screws are exposed. Lead staff has placed caution tape around the hazard and said that school age staff have placed a sign identifying the hazard to users but someone keeps removing it. Lead staff said that he has contacted 311 about the issue but so far no one from Parks has come out to address the issue. I stated I would call and see if the issue could be escalated. Post inspection - Called and emailed Van 311 to raise the complaint about this hazard. Spoke with 311 staff who stated she had forwarded the concern to the park rangers. I requested a work order also be sent out directly to Parks to prevent delay in addressing the hazard, noting the proximity to the toddler play area. 311 staff agreed to create a second submission specifically to Parks. Thanked the staff and stated I would inform the School Age program so that they could monitor for the response. 311 staff said she would have Parks contact me with any questions. The following are the case numbers - 201001955095 and 201001955120.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / EnvironmentNon-critical

  The facility, the furniture, equipment, fixtures and supplies are of sturdy and safe construction.  They are easy to clean, and are clean and in good repair and free from hazards. [CCLR Sec. 13(2) and Sec. 15(1)(a)]

  Observation. Overall the program is proactive in addressing maintenance issues. Manager discussed work orders that were underway. Two action items discussed today were the condition of cabinets above and below the art sink - cabinet fronts are due for refinishing - and the cracked tiles in the hallway.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / Play Area, Materials and EquipmentNon-critical

  The entire outdoor play area is enclosed and constructed in a manner that is suitable for the age and development of children, and ensures that children are free of harm. [CCLR Sec. 16(3)(a)(b)]

  Observation. Overall the program is proactive in replacing elements as they wear. A project currently underway is replacing the aging boat. The popular boat features has received bandaid repairs for years. Other wood elements that are damaged or exhibiting rot are to be replaced, including stumps and log retaining walls on planters. Planting to the east of the sand pit will be removed. Manager is looking for a vine that can grow over the trellis and provide shade but is non-pollinating. Manager will forward any drawings related to boat or any other structural pieces in the yard to CCFL for review and approval prior to installation. Manager confirmed that a pest control program is in place for rats. There are more rats and mice than past years. Manager will ensure that any new elements in the yard are designed or chosen with this in mind. Recent purchases for ongoing maintenance include a snow blower and sand blower.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / EnvironmentNon-critical

  The facility, the furniture, equipment, fixtures and supplies are of sturdy and safe construction.  They are easy to clean, and are clean and in good repair and free from hazards. [CCLR Sec. 13(2) and Sec. 15(1)(a)]

  Observation. The facility is aging and repairs / replacement require careful planning. Noted the level of cleanliness and maintenance has declined. These rooms receive heavy usage (especially the shared 5-8 and preschool room) and require an extra level of care. Inspection occurred on a Monday and there was considerable sand on the floor and other debris (note - sand pit has been frozen for about a week). Flooring, rugs and area carpets require seasonal cleaning. Carpeted bench seating in the preschool / 5-8 room requires cleaning. High impact walls in the preschool / 5-8 room require washing - especially north wall in music / gathering area and in washroom. Stools in the washroom require a cleaning. CCFL highly recommends acquiring washroom stools in more easily maintained colours. Noted the dolls in the pretend area are worn, dirty and many have been dissected into body parts with red marks on trunks and appendages. The couch and ottoman in the preschool / 5-8 room are cut /peeling and their longevity is time limited. CCFL highly recommends planning to replace these much loved and functional items by end of 2023 (at the latest). Observed significant tripping hazard in the Spirit Bear room. The rubber frame around the drain in the entry to the kitchen (and path to the washroom) is raised, exposing bare floor underneath. A safety and maintenance hazard. Above shared with staff and Senior Supervisor.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / Play Area, Materials and EquipmentNon-critical

  The entire outdoor play area is enclosed and constructed in a manner that is suitable for the age and development of children, and ensures that children are free of harm. [CCLR Sec. 16(3)(a)(b)]

  Observation. There was packed snow and ice on the walk way to the preschool / 5-8 room. This is a significant safety risk for children, families and staff trying to access the preschool / 5-8 room. People have to step onto the road to bypass. There was packed snow throughout the preschool / 5-8 yard. Staff reported they were given de-icer to melt the snow but it failed to work. The removal of snow and ice requires a two step process of snow removal then use of de-icer. This is a safety risk for children and staff. There are loose planks on the door of the wood shed on the northwest side of the yard. Broken "glass" mirror above the sand pit must be replaced or removed. Sand pit is currently frozen. Sand must be replenished by spring. Picnic table is in a state of disrepair - warped rough planks, etc.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / EnvironmentNon-critical

  The facility, the furniture, equipment, fixtures and supplies are of sturdy and safe construction.  They are easy to clean, and are clean and in good repair and free from hazards. [CCLR Sec. 13(2) and Sec. 15(1)(a)]

  Observation. Overall the facility is well maintained. The carpets are showing wear and many are dirty in both the 5-8 and Spirit Bear rooms. One carpet in the Spirit Bear room is fraying and poor repair.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / Play Area, Materials and EquipmentNon-critical

  The entire outdoor play area is enclosed and constructed in a manner that is suitable for the age and development of children, and ensures that children are free of harm. [CCLR Sec. 16(3)(a)(b)]

  Observation. Inspected the outdoor play area, spoke with facilities staff and then the staff team regarding items in need of attention. Discussed items requiring attention with the Manager on a post inspection call. The most significant issue seen today was the water running down from the building to the south and into the preschool / school age yard. This steady stream of water resulted in deep pooling of water in the west of the playground. Pooling could be mitigated by installing a gutter system (or other means to reroute the water out of the playground.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / Safe Play Space Standard of PracticeNon-critical

  Ground Surfacing: The playground surface is free of standing water and debris. [Director of Licensing Standard of Practice - Safe Play Space]

  Observation. See previous comments.

• RECORDS AND REPORTING / Records For Each ChildNon-critical

  The licensee has written parental consent to call a medical practitioner or ambulance in case of accident or illness, in cases where the parent cannot immediately be reached. [CCLR Sec. 57(3)(a)]

  Observation. Reviewed a sample of children's files from the preschool program. Files are complete and up to date. Program has moved to use of a Google doc form for registration and emergency consent cards. One child's immunization record appears to be missing however the child's tetanus is cited on the emergency consent card (indicating the child has had immunizations). Manager will follow up.

• RECORDS AND REPORTING / Records For Each ChildNon-critical

  The licensee has written, parental consent to release a child to someone other than the parent. [CCLR Sec. 57(3)(b)]

  Observation. Alternate pick up information is on file for each child. However written parent consent via a signature appears to be missing.