School hailed as 'outstanding'

Fullerton House School, which is run by the Hesley Group, provides all-year-round residential care and education for 40 students aged between eight and 19 years, with challenging behaviour linked to autism or severe learning difficulties. 

Headteacher David Whitehead said: “We are extremely proud of this recognition from Ofsted and it is testament to the hard work and professionalism of our staff and their dedication to the young people they support. 

“However, we are not complacent and will continue to develop our staff and our services to ensure we can continue to provide the very best care and education possible for young people with very challenging needs.”

He said Ofsted’s report highlighted the fact that the delivery of care and support is an outstanding strength. 

Mr Whitehead added: “It reported that young people at Fullerton House School benefit greatly from the exceptional range of activities on offer, as part of the school providing a personalised support programme which is appropriate to each individual’s needs.”

The school said Ofsted recognised that the induction training was very good and that the young people are cared for by staff who are competent, experienced and qualified to meet their needs.

Fullerton House School invests heavily in staff training, which includes recently introducing a new approach to behaviour management that has helped students enjoy a happier and calmer environment and has been highly praised for its results.

The Ofsted report also commended the school for its proactive approach to encouraging student intervention in decision making, he said.

This included setting up a student council which has a say on any decisions that affect the students and how the school is run. The students also have control over their own budget for functions and events throughout the year, such as the School Prom and the

Christmas Party, as well as having the opportunity to fundraise themselves.

The school said the report identified that the promotion of equality and diversity at the school is “outstanding.”

With students from many different backgrounds and cultures staff were praised for bringing to life the many religious festivals from around the world through art and music.