Three in a Row for The Dunes – Another Ofsted OUTSTANDING! 🌟🌟🌟
A huge congratulations to our incredible team at The Dunes, who have once again at this years inspection achieved an Ofsted Outstanding rating!
This fantastic result means The Dunes has now achieved Oftsed Outstanding at three consecutive full inspections – an incredible accomplishment and a true reflection of the dedication, passion and consistently high standards demonstrated by the whole team.
Special recognition must go to Registered Manager Tracy Locke, whose ambition and commitment to achieving the very best outcomes for young people shines throughout the report. Alongside her Deputy Manager and wider team, Tracy has created a warm, nurturing and child-centred home where young people are supported to thrive.
Overall Experiences and Progress of Children and Young People – OUTSTANDING
Ofsted Inspectors highlighted the exceptional progress young people make, particularly within education:
“Children engage in education each day and are making exceptional progress from their starting points. The manager advocates strongly on their behalf and challenges professionals when barriers to education arise.”
The report also praised the trusting relationships young people have with staff and the opportunities they enjoy, including holidays to Spain, outward-bound activities, baking and walks on the beach.
How Well Children and Young People Are Helped and Protected – OUTSTANDING
Care planning was recognised as a significant strength:
“Care plans are robust, child centred and responsive to each child’s holistic needs, ensuring that support is well coordinated and consistently delivered.”
Inspectors also highlighted the team’s exceptional understanding of individual risks and their use of restorative, strengths-based approaches to support young people.
The Effectiveness of Leaders and Managers – OUTSTANDING
Tracy’s leadership and the support of her Deputy Manager were specifically praised:
“She leads by example, and she is highly ambitious and committed to securing the best possible outcomes for the children in her care.”
The experienced and committed staff team were also recognised, alongside the home’s excellent partnership working, which one social worker described as “second to none”.
Overall Experiences and Progress of Children and Young People – OUTSTANDING
Inspectors highlighted the exceptional progress young people make, particularly within education:
“Children engage in education each day and are making exceptional progress from their starting points. The manager advocates strongly on their behalf and challenges professionals when barriers to education arise.”
The report also praised the trusting relationships young people have with staff and the opportunities they enjoy, including holidays to Spain, outward-bound activities, baking and walks on the beach.
How Well Children and Young People Are Helped and Protected – OUTSTANDING
Care planning was recognised as a significant strength:
“Care plans are robust, child centred and responsive to each child’s holistic needs, ensuring that support is well coordinated and consistently delivered.”
Inspectors also highlighted the team’s exceptional understanding of individual risks and their use of restorative, strengths-based approaches to support young people.
The Effectiveness of Leaders and Managers – OUTSTANDING
Tracy’s leadership and the support of her Deputy Manager were specifically praised:
“She leads by example, and she is highly ambitious and committed to securing the best possible outcomes for the children in her care.”
The experienced and committed staff team were also recognised, alongside the home’s excellent partnership working, which one social worker described as “second to none”.
Conclusion
Achieving Ofsted Outstanding three inspections in a row is an exceptional accomplishment and one that everyone at The Dunes should be immensely proud of.
The report reflects a home filled with “warmth, love and nurture”, where young people feel heard, supported and encouraged to achieve their full potential.
A huge congratulations to Tracy, her Deputy Manager and the entire Dunes team – three consecutive Ofsted Outstanding judgements is an incredible achievement and a fantastic reflection of the difference they continue to make in the lives of young people. 👏🌟
Join Our Mission:
We are seeking enthusiastic, empathetic, and driven individuals to join our team.
Whether you’re starting a new career or seeking a role with more meaning, New Horizons (NW) offers a path filled with rewards and possibilities.
We are currently hiring for various positions across Sefton and Lancashire.
Reach out to learn more about a career in residential children’s care, complete our online form and we’ll call you back, or call 01704 518915.
