Ofsted awards double ‘Outstanding’ to 4Children’s flagship children’s services

4Children’s flagship Carousel Children’s Centre and Day Nursery have both received ‘outstanding’ in their latest Ofsted inspections. The double ‘outstanding’ for both the Children’s Centre and onsite Day Nursery is a rare achievement – particularly as it comes under the new more challenging inspection regime -  and places 4Children in a unique position among voluntary providers of Children’s Centres.

The Children’s Centre and onsite nursery opened its doors to families in 2006 as 4Children’s first venture into the direct delivery of support to children, young people and families. The Essex based Children’s centre has since been singled out for high praise from politicians and commentators each inspired by its innovative and ‘strengths based’ approach to supporting children aged 0-19 and their families. The Centre has also received recognition for its pioneering partnership work with local health agencies, education authorities and the police service as well as creating close ties with local community groups.

In their book The Verdict: Did Labour Change Britain?  Polly Toynbee and David Walker wrote:

If every family had a Carousel on their doorstep then the UK would indeed feel more like Sweden, able to catch problems earlier. It is hard to do justice to what a Carousel felt like, the ebullience of a Tracy Lindsell, [Head of Children’s Services at 4Children], the determination to transform the lives of families in trouble, small children rescued.”

Tracy Lindsell, Head of Children’s Services at 4Children said:

We’re incredibly proud of having achieved this result. As our flagship services, it’s especially important that we continue to raise the bar in supporting families and exceed expectations. Giving local children the best start in life means everything to the team so it’s great to have official recognition that everyone’s hard work is paying off.”

Anne Longfield, Chief Executive of 4Children said:

"When 4Children decided to begin delivering frontline support for children and families, we had a clear vision of the kind of life-changing and joined up services we wanted all families to have on their doorstep. I’m delighted that five years down the line, our distinct approach is delivering some of the very best support available throughout the country  We are especially pleased that Ofsted have highlighted our success at working with families  who are facing real challenges who benefit so much  from what our Children’s Centres have to offer.”

The Ofsted Inspection Report for Carousel Children’s Centre states:

Users are exceptionally pleased with all the courses and activities available to them at Carousel. They talk about the ‘lifeline’ that the centre has provided especially at times of crisis. It adds: “…the centre is reaching the large majority of families…For example the work with the local Traveller’s community is outstanding and illustrates how, when professionals work together, all potential users are enabled to access services.”

The Ofsted Inspection Report for Carousel Nursery and Daycare states:

Children are excited, stimulated and challenged by the extensive range of play materials and activities provided for them….Children’s self-esteem and confidence is expertly promoted by staff who offer constant praise and encouragement to them…They are encouraged to express themselves creatively and to have an active voice within the setting.”

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