Following a two-day inspection in October, we are excited to announce that Breakaway, our children’s short breaks home, has maintained its outstanding grade from Ofsted. This follows on from the first ‘outstanding’ it received in March of this year.
In Breakaway’s report, staff were highly praised, with inspectors acknowledging that the registered manager provides consistent and effective support and supervision, staff take thoughtful measures to protect children’s rights and that they have in-depth knowledge of their roles and safeguarding responsibilities.
Inspectors recognised that partnership working is a significant strength for the short breaks home, from external professionals to parents who are actively involved and help understand the children’s specific needs of the children, and their interests. They found that ‘staff are intuitive, kind, and respectful when meeting children’s needs’ and are creative and forward thinking.
They praised the inclusivity at the children’s home, finding that holidays such as Eid and Diwali were celebrated and the excitement the children felt during the lead up to them.
It was outlined that a range of communication methods are used at Breakaway, supporting children who are verbal and nonverbal, and their families, too.
Sue Butcher, Executive Director of Children’s Services and Chief Executive of Slough Children First, said: “What a great achievement for Slough! I am extremely proud of the hard work that professionals who support our children and young people at Breakaway put in, to ensure that the service goes from strength to strength. The positive feedback is a testament that our children and young people are valued, treated as individuals, and are thriving.”
Councillor Puja Bedi, Lead Member for Education and Children’s Services, said: “Maintaining our Outstanding rating from Ofsted is another fantastic achievement for all the Breakaway staff and the wider team. Reading the Inspector’s praise of the team and their dedication to advocate for the children in their care is inspiring. We are fortunate to have such hardworking and caring professionals looking after our children and young people when respite is needed. Thank you to the whole team for your commitment to achieving this wonderful result.”
Other findings in the report included:
- Children make incredible progress.
- Leaders and managers manage complaints swiftly and effectively.
- Leaders and managers show an openness and commitment to learning and welcome feedback.
- There is excellent advocacy for the children.
We are pleased that there were no requirements raised at this inspection; however, it does not stop there, as we will continue to ensure that all involved with supporting Breakaway are doing their best to make sure our children and young people are ‘Happy, Safe & Loved, Thriving!’
Ofsted has now published the report, available to read on their website: 1183479 – Open – Find an Inspection Report – Ofsted
