A children’s home that provides short breaks for Reading children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) has been judged ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted.
The inspector praised Cressingham, in south Reading, for providing highly effective services that contribute to significantly improved outcomes for children and young people who need help, protection and care.
The judgement came following a two-day inspection in October 2022 and is the third consecutive ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted rating for the home while being run by Brighter Futures for Children (BFfC).
The overall experiences and progress of children and young people at the home was rated ‘Outstanding’.
The inspector said: “Staff love and value the children for their unique personalities. They know the children’s likes and dislikes extremely well and arrange activities and outings to suit, such as visiting the beach and going on train rides.”
She praised the “long serving, committed and skilled staff” for understanding children’s needs and vulnerabilities extremely well and helping them to grow in confidence and develop as independent individuals.
How well children and young people are helped and protected was also judged ‘Outstanding’.
The inspector said: “Children are safe and are very happy visiting the home. They show this through their smiles and constant interaction with staff.”
She also noted how staff work collaboratively with other professionals, parents and family members to gain insight into each child’s complex needs and communication barriers.
The effectiveness of leaders and managers was rated ‘Good’.
The registered manager of the home was praised for being experienced, dynamic and skilled in managing a children’s short break setting and for working incredibly hard to build positive relationships with children, staff and parents.
Di Smith, Board Chair of Brighter Futures for Children, said: “Congratulations to everyone at Cressingham for achieving this well-deserved ’Outstanding’ Ofsted rating.
“We are extremely proud of the team for the care and commitment they show towards the children and young people who love visiting the home.
“It is a joy to read the inspector’s comments about her positive time at Cressingham, which mirrors the experience of the children and young people who visit.”
The full Ofsted report is available at: Ofsted | 2502333