Children's home in Northampton helping challenged children is praised as '˜outstanding' by Ofsted

St John’s House, run by Northamptonshire County Council, provides residential placements for up to eight children at a time with emotional and behavioural difficulties.

Ofsted inspectors awarded St John’s an outstanding rating following their inspection in March, and Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector Sir Michael Wilshaw has written a special letter of recognition to the county council.

He said: “The judgement of outstanding means that you are exceptional and significant elements of your work are exemplary. I do not underestimate the considerable hard work, expertise and commitment it takes to achieve outstanding provider status.”

All four children’s homes managed by Northamptonshire County Council are now rated good or outstanding.

The Ofsted report on St John’s House said: “Children and young people in this home are making significant progress from their starting points, staff know their needs well and they have developed trusting and nurturing relationships with them.”

The report also praised the communication between staff and the children’s extended family, social workers, education, police and health and specialist services, while inspectors recognised that there is good work being done to prepare the young people to live independently in the future.

Children also told inspectors they feel relaxed and safe living in the home, and that they are given the opportunity to have their say.

County council cabinet member for children’s services, Councillor Matthew Golby, said: “This is a fantastic report from Ofsted and a real reflection of the hard work and commitment of everyone at St John’s House to support these children and young people.

“Residential homes like St John’s can make a positive difference to the prospects of children with complex needs and this report shows that the whole team is working hard to ensure these young people have the best life chances possible.”