A children’s home in South London which opened only a few years ago has been rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted. The Southwark Council-run children’s home provides care for five children with social and emotional difficulties, and was inspected by Ofsted on December 9 and 10 of last year.
In a report that was published last Friday (January 16), inspectors said children living in the home are “flourishing” and are thriving in all aspects of their lives. Inspectors said: “Staff genuinely care for and love the children. This is evident in their words, actions and the way they support every child. One child said, ‘If they didn’t care, it wouldn’t be like this, would it?’
“This reflects how children recognise and feel the care and affection in the home. This warmth and genuine concern strengthens strong, trusting relationships and creates a culture where children feel safe, valued and truly at home.”
They went on to praise staff for having a very good understanding of children’s risks, vulnerabilities and triggers for behaviour and if any incidents occur, they are managed safely and in line with children’s safety plans.
Inspectors added: “Children’s engagement with education improves significantly because of the care they receive. All children are making good progress.
“Some children, who have been out of education for several years, are now successfully attending school. Others are supported to engage in ways that meet their individual needs.”
They added: “To strengthen children’s educational outcomes further, the home has recently formed a closer partnership with the local authority’s virtual school. As part of this work, a teacher works full time in the home, liaising with schools and working directly with children and supporting them to attend school.
“Although this initiative is new and its impact is still emerging, it sends a message to children that they matter and that staff and professionals have high aspirations for their future.”
The children’s home was rated ‘Outstanding’ in three key areas; the overall experiences and progress of children and young people, how well children and young people are helped and protected and the effectiveness of leaders and managers.
The children’s home opened in 2024 and was jointly funded by the council and a government grant.
Nearly £3 million was spent on transforming the previously vacant property into a modern children’s home that helped children stay closer to their families, schools and communities, which has helped to improve stability and outcomes.
Cllr Jasmine Ali, Deputy Leader of Southwark Council and Cabinet Member for Children, Education and Refugees, said: “This outstanding Ofsted judgement is a huge testament to the dedication of our staff and wider support teams.
“This is fantastic news and I hear that the children told inspectors that they ‘loved’ living there. Which is so wonderful to hear and what we want for all of our children in care.”
Cllr Ali added: “At a time when many councils are being forced to place children far from home due to a lack of quality provision, Southwark is proud to be investing in local, council-run care that puts children first.”
Southwark Council are also committed to recruiting local foster carers for Southwark children. To find out more about becoming a foster carer please here.
