Well done St Mary's

Following on from the last Ofsted report, which declared St Mary's (Wrestwood) as giving pupils an "outstanding education" and providing "outstanding value for money", the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) has said that St Mary's "provides excellent outcomes for the people that use it."

The unannounced inspection held on Tuesday, December 5 and Wednesday, December 6 found that there was nothing to be improved upon and the Inspector's report concludes that there are no recommended actions to be taken.

The CSCI inspectors use a four- point scale in their assessment of the extent to which the National Minimum Standards for Residential Special Schools have been met; these are;

1, Standard not met (major shortfalls);

2, Standard almost met (minor shortfalls);

3, Standard met (no shortfalls) and

4, Standard exceeded (commendable).

From the 19 standards inspected, St Mary's scored 13 x 4's and 6 x 3's.

The Inspectors said of St Mary's: "The School provides a healthy, caring environment where the complex health needs of the young people and their intimate care needs are identified and well managed.

"The young people's education is fully supported in the boarding areas to ensure a 24 hour curriculum approach and individual support is of the highest calibre.

"St Mary's school has a robust framework in place that ensures the young people are respected and kept safe, whilst at the same time they are enabled to voice any concerns and keep themselves safe.

"The young people are enabled to contribute to every aspect of their life at the school, as are their parents and others involved in their care. This results in comprehensive care planning which supports the progress of each pupil.

"The school is managed by a cohesive and well organised management team that results in consistent and holistic care packages for the young people".

David Cassar, principal and chief executive of St Mary's Wrestwood Children's Trust, said: "It is always very pleasing to receive such excellent inspection results.

"Such things are a testament to the very hard work and commitment of all those involved at St Mary's; the young people and their parents, the staff and governors.

"The care and nursing managers in particular should be singled out for praise, ably led by my assistant principal (care and nursing), Mr Neil Masterton."