Residential Ofsted

Oak Lodge School - Residential Provision   Following an Ofsted inspection in October 2025, Oak Lodge Residential can announce that the residential provision was graded as 'Outstanding'. See below or  Click here to read the full report

Ofsted Comments   

'Children make remarkable progress due to the high levels of nurturing care that they 
receive. They have built trusting, dependable relationships with the highly dedicated 
and motivated staff team. The relationships between children and staff are full of 
fondness and mutual respect. Children maintain contact with their school friends 
outside of school and some return to visit after they have left.’

'Children say that they are able to influence the care that they receive. Staff recognise
that not all children enjoy similar activities or meals. The flexibility of arrangements
means that children can cook, bake, play indoor games, attend community activities
or simply spend time relaxing with their friends. All children said that they feel
listened to and feel confident about talking to staff if they have any worries.'

'The children’s behaviour is exemplary, and there is a genuine warmth that runs
throughout the residential provision and the school. The staff are quick to recognise
and respond to any potential difficulties in peer relationships, preventing any
escalation. Bullying is not an identified issue.'

'Staff help children to build their independent living skills. Children are taught skills
that help them to prepare for adult life. This is a key strength of the residential
provision. Routine planners are detailed and meticulous for each child. Targeted work
to address each child’s individual needs is pitched at their level of understanding and
reviewed with all the professionals involved. All staff speak of the genuine desire to
increase the life chances of disabled children and act as excellent role models for
children.'

Ofsted Comments   This residential special school is good because:
'Staff work extremely well with teaching staff to ensure that children have good transitions between the residential provision and the school. Staff from both sides of the school communicate exceptionally well with each other and have detailed handovers. Consequently, children receive consistent care by a team who understand their needs. When children are in residence, they have a predictable daily routine which adds stability to their experience.'

'The safeguarding team has clear systems in place to oversee safeguarding across the school. They have a plan to move to a new recording system that is more user friendly to monitor actions taken when staff raise a concern. Staff spoken to showed appropriate understanding of the school’s safeguarding procedures. They know children exceptionally well and are alert to any changes in behaviour or presentation that may give cause for concern.'