The care provided at a residential Brighton school for deaf children has been rated as outstanding by independent inspectors from Ofsted.
Staff and pupils at Hamilton Lodge Deaf School and College in Walpole Road, Brighton, were celebrating the top verdict at the school’s sports day today.
The school’s head teacher Graham Sheppard said: “The majority of our students board here as they come from across the south east and beyond.
“Our staff care passionately about providing our students with a supportive homely environment which helps them grow into confident independent young people who make the most of living in Brighton.
“Ofsted’s judgment that our care is outstanding is recognition of the hard work and commitment of our staff.”
The Oftsed inspectors said in their report: “Outstanding service in all respects. The school provides high-quality care which meets the individual needs of all the young people who board.
“Young people’s welfare is enhanced by the excellent relationships that exist between staff and young people and young people and their peers.
“The school gives young people an opportunity to experience education and school life as a positive part of their lives.
“Many positive comments were made by the young people such as: ‘I love my life here at school.’”
Similar positive feedback was also received from parents. Comments included: “Young people receive outstanding levels of individual support, guidance and care.
“Relationships between staff and young people are professional and respectful.
“It is clear that the culture of the school promotes the empowerment of young people.”
