Chesterfield special school rated 'outstanding' by Ofsted celebrates ‘fantastic achievement’
Ofsted found that staff, leaders and managers ‘clearly want the very best for children and nothing less’.
Celebrations are underway after the residential provision at a Chesterfield school for children with special educational needs has been praised by Ofsted.
The residential provision at Holly House Special School at Church Street North in Old Whittington has been rated as ‘outstanding’ across all areas inspected by Ofsted during an inspection carried out on September 29.
These included overall experiences and progress of children and young people, taking into account how well children and young people are helped and protected as well as the effectiveness of leaders and managers.
In the Ofsted report, published on November 4, inspectors praised the school for ‘highly effective services that consistently exceed the standards of good’.
Inspectors noted that children continue to make ‘exceptional progress’ in line with their age and stage of development.
Ofsted found that staff, leaders and managers ‘clearly want the very best for children and nothing less’ and praised them for being ‘excellent advocates’ for the Holly House pupils.
Inspectors have further praised the school for ‘lifeline’ support offered to families and carers.
The report reads: “Family, school and the residential provision align seamlessly.
“Working with families and carers remains a great strength. Some families see the support and guidance they receive as a lifeline.
“Staff are extremely attuned to the individual needs of children. They naturally adapt and change activities and plans to ensure that all children have a successful and enjoyable residential stay.”
Inspectors have further praised pupils at Holly House for being ‘kind and considerate towards others’ - and highlighted that the staff were working hard to model positive behaviour and prioritise children’s emotional wellbeing.
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Commenting on the Ofsted success, Cheryl Gray, Head of Care at Holly House Special School said: “This is a fantastic achievement for Holly House School and one that every member of our residential team should be immensely proud of.
“Their unwavering dedication, teamwork and genuine care for our children have been recognised through this outstanding result.
“We remain committed to giving every child the opportunity to feel safe, succeed and reach their full potential.”
Holly House School is a maintained residential community special school for children with social, emotional and mental health difficulties.
The school provides education for 43 children aged seven to 14.
The residential provision is in an annex to the main school and provides accommodation for up to eight children each night from Monday to Thursday during term time.