Salutem

16/08/21

Ingfield Manor School in Billingshurst, West Sussex, is celebrating an ‘Outstanding’ social care provider rating – as well as 100% parental satisfaction from a recent survey.

The school, which is managed by specialist education provider Ambito Care and Education, part of the Salutem Care and Education group, offers specialist residential care and education for children and young people with neurological motor impairments. ‘Acorns’ residential provision, part of Ingfield Manor school managed by Tracey Francis, was awarded Outstanding in all three key areas:

‘Overall experience and progress of its children and young people’, ‘how well the children and young people are helped and protected’ and ‘the effectiveness of leaders and managers at the facility’.

Ingfield Manor School offers a conductive education curriculum - a cognitive and motor approach, focusing on developing independence and problem-solving skills for each individual.

Nicola Dodds, principal at Ingfield Manor School said: “We are overjoyed with the ‘Outstanding’ rating from Ofsted for our social care provision, especially during what has been a difficult time through the Covid pandemic.

“The staff team has really pulled together as one family and workforce and have been impeccable in ensuring that the students’ needs are always at the forefront of everything we do.

“The report describes our warm and nurturing environment, rewarding our efforts in creating this safe and protective space.”

The Ofsted report highlighted that students demonstrated exceptional progress at the school and states safeguarding is a top priority.

It praised “aspirational leadership teams” in the way they supported students.

A questionnaire for students and parents has also produced some great feedback - and Nicola says she and her team are “just as delighted” with these results as they are with their Ofsted report.

It showed 100% of parents feel confident the school is doing all it can to support the students through the Covid-19 pandemic.

All parents also agreed the pupils’ emotional wellbeing was supported during this time and 100% agreed that their child is happy at school.

Crucially, 100% said they believe the school provides a safe environment for their child and they have had enough support from the school to be able to assist with their child’s learning.

A total of 100% also said tasks set for their children have been realistic and achievable and clearly explained for parents to be able to follow them confidently.

Another said: “Thank you to all staff who have worked tirelessly through the pandemic to support all pupils, whether at home or school. It is greatly appreciated.”

One simply said: “Amazing school. Dedicated staff. A joy to see consistent progress in my child and parents are well supported.”

Nicola said: “The fact that parents are telling us how much they value the work we do with their children backs up everything that we do in our school, our efforts to fulfil all our students’ potential and our ‘can do’ attitude and ethos.”

John Godden MBE, CEO of Salutem Care and Education said: “The ‘Outstanding’ social care Ofsted rating for Ingfield Manor School shows that the school is exceptional when it comes to fulfilling our vision to ensure all children and young people to have all their individual education, care and health needs met at all times.

“Supporting young people to develop the skills needed to be more independent as adults is the most rewarding thing we do - and the Ingfield Manor School team is a fantastic example of that work.

“Clearly, they work tirelessly to ensure the needs of all students are always at the forefront and I congratulate them on their ‘Outstanding’ report and wish them every success in the future.”

ENDS

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For further information contact Josh Mason on 01325 363436

Editor’s Notes:

Salutem Care and Education is a UK-based residential and healthcare operator and investor with 130 services nationwide.

Within its portfolio are:

Modus Care specialises in support services for those with Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, learning disabilities and other complex needs. It provides small residential facilities for adults as well as bespoke services.

Ambito Care and Education comprises the former Scope services which include four education facilities, 30 care homes and ten day services.

Clearwater Care provides 27 services in the Midlands and South East, for complex needs and severe learning difficulties in residential and supported living.

Pathways Care Group has 54 homes nationwide for adults with learning difficulties.