A READING children's home has received the highest Ofsted rating following an unannounced inspection.

Pinecroft, run by the council's Brighter Futures for Children has achieved an Outstanding after the recent visit.

READ MORE: Reading Council owned Brighter Futures for Children inspected by Ofsted

It is one of two children's homes run in Reading by the newly-formed organisation.

The inspector awarded the top rating to all three key areas observed: the overall experiences and progress of children; how well children and young people were helped and protected and the effectiveness of leaders.

This was the first Ofsted inspection of the home since Brighter Futures for Children took over children's services from Reading Borough Council in December 2018.

The inspector visited the home in July this year.

Pinecroft provides care for up to five children with learning and physical disabilities and/or sensory impairments.

The inspector found that the children's home provides 'highly effective services that consistently exceed the standards of good.'

The report stated that "the actions of the children's home contribute to significantly improved outcomes and positive experiences for children and young people who need help, protection and care."

The inspector referred to staff as ‘smiley, passionate and enthusiastic’ and added: "The well-established team works hard to maximise and enrich the children's experiences.

"This creates an atmosphere which is full of warmth and love where staff are nurturing and supportive of the children."

Staff were also praised for their ‘excellent’ links with healthcare professionals and relationships with parents, as well as their demonstrations of embracing children's identity and cultural needs.

There was particular praise for the registered manager, Helena Baptista, who was described by the inspector as ‘highly experienced', as well as 'dynamic, ambitious and forward thinking.'

Tony Kildare, managing director of Brighter Futures for Children, said: "We are all extremely proud of the team at Pinecroft.

"Helena's leadership style is inclusive, pro-active and highly effective in motivating her staff who, in turn, deliver an outstanding and vital service to children, young people and their families.

"The whole team’s approach is both exceptional and inspiring."

Cllr Liz Terry, lead councillor for Children's Services, said: "I'd like to congratulate the entire team a Pinecroft for again achieving an Outstanding Ofsted judgement.

"The management team and staff have consistently impressed Ofsted inspectors with their dedication and excellent work with children who have a range of learning disabilities and complex medical needs.

"It is heartening to know that children who attend Pinecroft enjoy such a positive experience in a warm and caring environment."

Registered manager Helena Baptista said: "This report is a credit to the young people and staff who have work so hard together to attain the best possible outcomes. "To achieve an Outstanding judgement in every single inspection area, with no recommendations or requirements, is absolutely incredible!

"I am really pleased that Ofsted was able to observe the work we do and confirm that we delivery care to the highest standard.

"I am really proud of my team, who are an extremely skilled group of professionals that are passionate about making a difference to the lives of the children we care for.

"A special mention is needed for my assistant unit manager Sherwin Springer, who oversees the operation of the home on a day to day basis."

The full Ofsted report can be found

here

.