Published: 04 August 2026
A Surrey County Council children’s home in Guildford has been rated ‘Outstanding’ in all areas by Ofsted, recognising the excellent care, support and opportunities provided to children and young people living at the home.
Ofsted highlighted the positive experiences and outcomes achieved by children and young people living at the home, noting that children receive “exceptional care that is tailored for their individual needs” and that “all children have made progress in the development of their social skills.”
Importantly, children themselves spoke positively about their experiences, telling inspectors that they enjoy living at the home, feel well cared for by staff and benefit from a wide range of positive opportunities. The report noted that children are regularly consulted and that their views are respected by staff.
Inspectors found that children “feel trusted and respected” and benefit from strong, trusting relationships with staff that encourage open and honest conversations, helping them to feel safe, secure and supported to achieve their potential. Children also told inspectors “they know how to make a complaint but do not need to because staff listen to them and respond to their concerns.”
Leadership at the home was also identified as a key strength. Inspectors noted that “the registered manager leads a culture at the home that allows children and staff to flourish” and recognised the ambition, commitment and focus on continuous improvement that has helped create an environment where children can thrive.
This latest judgement marks a significant achievement for the home. At its previous inspection, the home was rated ‘Good’. Achieving an ‘Outstanding’ rating across all areas demonstrates the dedication, professionalism and determination of the leadership team and wider staff group to deliver the very highest standards of care for Surrey’s children and young people.
Helyn Clack, Surrey County Council Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Lifelong Learning, said: “This Outstanding judgement is a fantastic achievement and reflects the unwavering commitment of everyone working within the home to provide children and young people with the care, stability and support they need to thrive.
“What stands out most in this report is what children themselves are saying about their experiences. They told inspectors that they enjoy living at the home, feel listened to, wellcared for and respected. That is a powerful reflection of the dedication and compassion shown by the staff team every day.
“I would like to express my thanks to the registered manager, responsible individual and the entire staff team for their hard work and dedication. I am incredibly proud of them, and of the legacy of strong foundations in children’s residential provision Surrey County Council is leaving for the future East and West Surrey Councils to build on.”
Surrey County Council currently operates 13 Ofsted-registered residential homes, with more in development as part of an £18 million investment programme. The council’s ambition is to provide Surrey homes for Surrey children, enabling children and young people to remain close to their communities, schools, families and support networks while receiving the stability and care they need to flourish.
Notes to editors:
- The home is owned and operated by Surrey County Council and provides care for up to five children with social and emotional needs. Five children were living at the home at the time of the inspection.
- This work supports delivery of the council’s 2025–2028 Looked After Children and Care Leaver Sufficiency Strategy, which sets out Surrey’s commitment to ensuring there are enough high-quality local homes and support services to meet the needs of children and young people in care.
- Read the full Ofsted inspection report: 50308433
