posted 29th September 2025
A RESIDENTIAL children’s home has been praised by Ofsted inspectors for the ‘nurturing, thoughtful and therapeutic’ care it provides for the young people who live there.
Austen Cottage, part of Rockhopper Children’s Services, was graded as ‘good’ in all areas by the regulator. Children living at the home shared with inspectors that ‘the manager and staff are brilliant’ and that they feel safe and enjoy living there.
The report noted: “All children spoke positively about the atmosphere in the home, which they attributed to the adults who care for them. Children enjoy new experiences and opportunities, such as holidays and celebrating special events together.”
Children moving in and out of Austen Cottage, the report noted, experience ‘thoughtful and well-planned transitions’ both into and out of the home, with one child positively transitioning during the inspection to semi-independent living.
There was praise too on how education is supported at the home, with inspectors noting: “Education is promoted well. All children have made progress from their starting points.
The health needs of children living at the home were also well met. The report stated: “Children also benefit from access to an in-house therapist, which supports their emotional well-being.”
And there was also praise for the Manager of the home and the team supporting children, with the inspector noting in their report: “The home is managed by a passionate and enthusiastic manager who is a strong advocate for children.”
The ‘consistent and stable’ staff team, provides ‘effective and informed support’. The home is a place where their professional growth is promoted through training, leading to a ‘skilled and confident’ workforce, best able to meet the needs of the children.
