Good Ofsted rating for Black Country children's centres
Five children's centres have been given an overall 'good' rating by Ofsted inspectors. The Rowley Springfield, Rowley Hall, Cradley Heath and Old Hill, and Tividale centres were said to have a programme of activities that 'meets families' needs well'.
The report, published by Ofsted, also states that parents value the 'warm and friendly' environment at the centres and appreciate the 'very good' care and support which they get from leaders and staff. Inspectors also praised staff at the Health for Living-managed children's centres, which are all in Sandwell.
They said that they are 'well qualified and work well together as a team'.
Anna Gillespie, director of Health for Living, said: "Our main aim is to improve the lives of children and families who use the centres.
"That could be through hosting baby massage classes or cook-well sessions, which show parents how to prepare healthy meals for youngsters."
She added: "This inspection result is testament to the hard work and commitment of staff at the centres and we are pleased with the outcome.
"We recognise that there are areas that we want to do even better in and we are working hard to ensure we do this."
Paula Ralph, cluster manager for the children's centres, said: "We are really pleased with the result of the inspection.
"It really is a reflection of the hard work that our staff do day-in, day-out at the children's centres."
The children's centres that were inspected are managed by Health for Living, a partnership between the Accord Group, Black Country Housing Group, Murray Hall Community Trust and The Kaleidoscope Plus Group.
The centres provide a range of services for children and families, from play and stays and play-groups to family health clinics and work clubs.
Health for Living runs a confidence and well-being service that has classes and sessions across Sandwell to help people improve their confidence, handle long-term health conditions and improve health and well-being.
In February, GNG Nursery, run at Smethwick Youth and Community Centre in Trinity Street, was classed as outstanding by Ofsted inspectors – the highest possible rank which is awarded for a childcare facility or school.
The nursery, set up in co-operation with the Guru Nanak Gurdwara, only opened in August last year but already caters for around 40 children.
Inspectors also reported that staff are 'highly motivated with high expectations of themselves and the children'.
