The recently refurbished care facility at our High Peak School has been judged 'Good' following its latest Ofsted inspection. Inspectors commented on the high standard of the refurbishments and that they added a homely feel.

Inspectors reported very positive feedback from family and professionals.

‘One social worker said: ‘When he went, he had no social skills. He is now very endearing, and staff promote independence skills.’  A parent said, ‘I can’t fault the quality of care’.’

The report said

‘Children are involved in a range of age-appropriate and stimulating activities in the home and in the community. One child maintains a flowerbed on the grounds, and there are plans to develop this further into a vegetable patch. Another child celebrated his birthday by having a swimming pool party with his friends at the on-site swimming pool. This child is also undertaking a personal swimming challenge, and this has helped him to lead a healthier lifestyle. Some children help at the on-site café and another at the village lunch club, serving meals to residents. Such opportunities increase self-confidence, self-esteem and social skills for children’.

Going on to say

‘Children access the on-site education provision, and all children are making good progress. There is excellent communication between the home and the school, and good examples of collaborative work.’

The report highlighted the therapeutic work being carried out;

‘A team of clinicians support the children’s emotional and behavioural issues both in school and in their home. This ensures continuity of care. Clinicians offer advice and guidance to staff and measure therapeutic progress by working directly with the children. One child has weekly visits, including at weekends, from the occupational therapist, who assesses progress in the home environment. This assessment tracks independence skills and will help to form a holistic view for the child’s future.’

And how staff are supporting the children;

‘Detailed impact assessments are completed before a child is placed. For younger children, staff focus on creating a nurturing environment. Children are supported by staff to move on to foster placements or rehabilitation back with family members. In another setting, staff prepare children with independence skills. Some children need a more structured and quieter home, and their living space is tailored to their needs. There are further plans to develop a games room and a nurture room to meet the needs of children with autism spectrum disorder.

All children have detailed and evaluative behaviour management plans and risk assessments, which are followed in practice by home staff. Clear and detailed risk management plans provide staff with valid information to support their understanding of children’s behaviours, with guidance on how to manage challenging behaviours and the preferred de-escalation technique.’

The report is to the credit to all the care staff and the leadership team and you can read the full report here