The children's home at RNIB Pears Centre for Specialist Learning has retained its 'outstanding' rating following an Ofsted inspection in November 2012 and had no recommendations identified by the inspector.
The outstanding judgment is the highest rating given and means 'a service of exceptional quality that significantly exceeds minimum requirements'.
Sally Harvey, Group Director of Independent Living at RNIB said: "I am delighted with Ofsted's inspection report which makes very fine reading indeed. I am truly proud of Linda Cope, the Registered Manager, and the staff team who have delivered such outstanding outcomes for the young people in our care. The children in our care are some of the most vulnerable in society and the difference we have made is clearly set out in the report."
"Exceptionally well managed"
Ofsted judged the overall effectiveness to be outstanding and the report commented that "this home is exceptionally well managed in every outcome area by a highly committed manager. Young people make significant progress and some outcomes are exceptional when viewed from their starting point".
The report also praised the "highly individual and well-structured package of care" provided by the centre and added that "staff ensure that the education of young people is part of their whole life experience and not just related to classrooms".
RNIB Pears Centre for Specialist Learning offers individually-tailored education, care and therapies to children and young people with complex needs who are blind or partially sighted up to the age of 19. Short breaks, respite care and support for young people with high healthcare needs are also available from two of the specialist bungalows.
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Notes to Editor
Building on more than fifty years of expert care and education, RNIB Pears Centre for Specialist Learning offers a stimulating and supportive environment for children and young people to reach their full potential for learning, independence and fulfilment. To find out more or to download our full Ofsted inspection reports visit www.rnib.org.uk/pearscentre
For press enquiries, please contact Rachel Cafferty in RNIB's Public Relations Team on 020 7391 2043, email rachel.cafferty@rnib.org.uk
About RNIB
Everyday around 100 people in the UK start to lose their sight. There are around 2 million people in the UK with sight problems. RNIB is the leading charity working in the UK offering practical support, advice and information for anyone with sight difficulties. If you, or someone you know, has a sight problem RNIB can help. Call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or visit www.rnib.org.uk