Caudwell House, a Nottinghamshire County Council children’s home has received an ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted report after its most recent inspection.

This latest report marks 14 inspections when the home has been rated outstanding. The report said the experiences and progress of children living in this home are exceptional, and this is down to the “unwavering commitment to the children” from the staff working there.

Caudwell House provides residential care and overnight short breaks to children with physical disabilities and associated learning difficulties and/or health needs.

Sharon Knight, Registered Manager at Caudwell House, said: “We are incredibly proud to have received this outstanding report. It is a testament to the hard work of the team; they’re dedicated to supporting the children and young people.

“I’d like to say thank you to all of the staff for their commitment in making the home a supportive and fun place to be. Everyone at the home strives to make every child's stay enjoyable and enriching, ensuring they feel valued and supported, and this report shows that.”

The home has recently gone through a management change and still maintained its exceptional supportive environment. This report follows the outstanding inspection that the Big House, another of the county council’s children’s homes, received in March.

In the report, Ofsted highlighted that Sharon is inspirational, nurturing and passionate about her role, and that her leadership creates a positive, child-focused environment that supports staff and enhances the experiences of children in her care.

The report also stated that children’s confidence and self-esteem grow because they are so well supported by all of the staff. One staff member said: “I love my job. I am extremely happy here. We are like a family, I just love it.”

During the inspection, parents also spoke very highly of the staff team, and the exceptional communication and care shown to their children.

Part of the Nottinghamshire local area SEND strategy vision is that children and young people are safe, and feel safe, accepted and valued. The report stated that at Caudwell House children “trust staff and seek interaction and reassurance from them.” As well as staff having a “detailed understanding of each child’s expressions and methods of communication.”

Colin Pettigrew, Executive Director Children and Families, said: “At Nottinghamshire County Council we know how dedicated staff are to giving children and young people a place they can feel loved, protected and safe no matter where they are.

“We are continuing to improve outcomes for children with SEND. This report proves once again that we are committed to making a difference to the lives of every child and young person in our care.

“I would like to congratulate the staff at Caudwell House for this outstanding outcome. To have achieved an outstanding Ofsted rating, 14 times in a row is a fantastic achievement."