Southwell children’s home Caudwell House receives outstanding Ofsted report for 14th time

A children’s home has achieved it’s 14th outstanding Ofsted report — with inspectors praising staff’s “unwavering commitment”

Caudwell House, run by Nottinghamshire County Council, has received an outstanding Ofsted report after its most recent inspection — maintaining the top rating despite a recent management change.

The report said the experiences and progress of children living in the Southwell home are exceptional, due 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 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.”

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 of the support they receive from 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.”

The report stated that at Caldwell House children “trust staff and seek interaction and reassurance from them”, and staff have a “detailed understanding of each child’s expressions and methods of communication.”

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

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."