Waterbutt in garden- Views please

**MAWI** · 29-03-2011, 10:19 AM

I have just had a waterbutt installed in my garden because we need to save water. I thought it would be a good idea in order to water the plants etc..

I mentioned to another childminder and she said 'NO, Ofsted wont like that' 'I'd take it away'. Now I understand its water but it has a lockable lid and children are obviously supervised and I will Risk Assess it. How are they going to learn about sustainability if we keep watering the flowers with tap water ( and my waterbill is horrendous)

Anyone else have one? and what did OFSTED think?

Does the idea of a water butt frightne anyone else?

Comments please, Im a little set back by her comments now

I do have OFSTED looming, so in a bit of a panic as I know something like that can affect youre grade.

**Mouse** · 29-03-2011, 10:22 AM

How daft of the other cm!

Like you say, RA it & you'll be fine. Always make sure the lid is locked, don't leave anything nearby that the children could climb on & supervise at all times (as you would anyway).

Like you say, it's a great way for children to learn

**Dragonfly** · 29-03-2011, 10:35 AM

Of course you can have one! lid on/locked Ra. Ofsted didnt have a problem with mine.

**tiger79** · 02-04-2011, 01:31 PM

My waterbutt was picked up on my initial inspection and I was just told to use gaffa tape to make the lid inaccessible.

jumpinjen · 02-04-2011, 02:32 PM

Ofsted very keen on children gardeing and learning about renewable resources etc so as long as lid locked and innaccessible then absolutely fine!

jen x

**Meleje** · 02-04-2011, 02:41 PM

This just reminded me to add mine to my RA so thanks.

**clare's bears** · 02-04-2011, 02:52 PM

think it is a fab idear for children thinking of getting one myself sure ofsted will love it

**MAWI** · 03-04-2011, 07:09 PM

Thanks for all your comments, I feel much easier with it now. You know how you think its a great idea and in your head you think its all ok, then someone puts a doubt in your head. I should trust my own judgement. Thanks for the tip on gaffa tape, will do that.
I noticed that Pre-school have installed 2 waterbutts last week, so I guess it is a goid idea after all.

**Chatterbox Childcare** · 03-04-2011, 08:43 PM

Mine is at the bottom of the garden in the children's play area. It has a piece of drain pipe feeding it at the top and the lid is secure. Cannot see a problem