Elite Montessori Academy Blenheim Group Care

All indoor and outdoor play materials and equipment accessible to children are suitable for the age and development of the children, safely constructed, free from hazards and in good repair. [CCLR Sec. 16(4)]

Observation. One section of the backyard fence showing exposed metal sheet that is sharp, due to wood aging over time. Licensee has temporarily mitigated risk of cuts and scrapes with duct tape, and has plans to replace the fencing in June.

All indoor and outdoor play materials and equipment accessible to children are suitable for the age and development of the children, safely constructed, free from hazards and in good repair. [CCLR Sec. 16(4)]

Observation. Licensing observed signs of rotting wood on one section of the fencing in the backyard, resulting in the displacement of a metal sheet covering the bottom area of the fence. Exposed corners are sharp, and pose as a potential hazard to children running or playing in proximity.

The licensee keeps a current record for each child showing the information required. [CCLR Sec. 57]

Observation. Licensing observed one child to be missing an emergency contact, and two children's files missing a photo.

There is evidence of employees' continued compliance with the Province's immunization and tuberculosis control programs. [CCLR Sec 21(1)]

Observation. Immunization status was not available for one staff. Resource sent with this report.

Implementation of the fire drill system is practiced at least once each month, and implementation of the emergency plan is practiced at least once each year. [CCLR Sec. 22(2)(b)(c)]

Observation. Staff inform that fire drills are regularly discussed with the children, however practices have not been recorded. Manager informs that the emergency plan was implemented in October 2025 most recently, however, has not been recorded. Manager relocated the Emergency drill log to a prominent space on the wall for convenience of filling in. A conversation clarified that a fire drill must still be practiced on the month that an emergency drill is implemented.

The certificates, or copies of certificates, of early childhood educators and assistants are prominently displayed in the facility. [CCLR 11(4)]

Observation. ECE certificate for one staff not posted.

A healthy and safe environment is provided at all times [CCLR Sec. 13(1)].

Observation. Licensing observed the following: - Fruits and vegetables stored in the refrigerator are not monitored for appropriate temperature for safe consumption. - Lunch items provided by families are stored in lunch bags, however, some items requiring refrigeration did not have ice packs. Discussion with Licensee regarding several potential options. - Staff inform that Windex is being used to clean/sanitize all surfaces throughout the day, including food contact surfaces and porous surfaces. Spray bottles of Windex are observed around the facility. Discussion was had in regards to the importance of providing a safe way of cleaning and sanitizing throughout the day, in activity areas and children's washroom area. Soap/water and Bleach solution would be highly recommended. An electronic resource will be provided along with this report.

Hazardous objects and substances are inaccessible to children. [CCLR Sec 17]

Observation. Licensing observed a large container of cleaning chemical on the washroom sink counter located in the second washroom. Door to this washroom was open, with chemicals accessible to children.

All indoor and outdoor play materials and equipment accessible to children are suitable for the age and development of the children, safely constructed, free from hazards and in good repair. [CCLR Sec. 16(4)]

Observation. Licensing observed a mud kitchen in the outside yard, placed against the fence, providing access to a low roof of the garage which children can climb and fall to the other side of concrete surfacing.

The licensee keeps current records of each employee as required under Sec. 19(1). [CCLR Sec.56(b)]

Observation. Licensing observed one staff present to be missing a certificate verification, one reference, and immunization status. Manager obtained the verification and immunization status during the inspection.

Implementation of the fire drill system is practiced at least once each month, and implementation of the emergency plan is practiced at least once each year. [CCLR Sec. 22(2)(b)(c)]

Observation. Licensing observed a fire drill record available, however, Manager informed that the last practice was last year. Staff are unaware of fire drill protocol and the emergency plan. A conversation was had with the Manager in regards to the importance of providing relevant training for all staff to implement these procedures. It is important that all staff are trained in responding to an emergency, and while an annual practice is the minimum requirement, if staff do not know what to do, it is a good indication that there should be more practice.

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

Observation. Inspections of the outdoor area not maintained and recorded. A conversation with the Manager in regards to having a check of hazards prior to children accessing the play space, and a more thorough inspection each month if possible. Electronic resource provided to the Manager in addition to this report.

The licensee keeps a current record for each child showing the information required. [CCLR Sec. 57]

Observation. Licensing observed missing information in several children's records including photos, immunization status, emergency contact information, and medical insurance information.

Implementation of the fire drill system is practiced at least once each month, and implementation of the emergency plan is practiced at least once each year. [CCLR Sec. 22(2)(b)(c)]

Observation. Manager was unable to locate the fire drill records. An implementation of the emergency plan will be arranged within the next 9 months.