Norton Court House, our children’s complex care service in Stockton-on-Tees, is delighted to share that it has been upgraded to an overall ‘Good’ rating following its recent Ofsted inspection.

The full inspection found the service ‘Good’ across all three inspected areas:

• Overall experiences and progress of children and young people
• How well children and young people are helped and protected
• The effectiveness of leaders and managers

Norton Court House is a specialist service for children and young people with a diagnosed learning disability and who may have behaviour support needs. The service offers intensive levels of support and care to help them develop social and life skills in a carefully considered environment.

Commenting on the ‘Good’ rating, Registered Manager Stevie Daley said: “Receiving the ‘Good’ rating in all areas means a great deal to me and my team; it is truly a dream come true.

Our overall aim was to provide the children and young people we care for with a ‘Good’ home to live in, and we have finally achieved this. I am incredibly proud of my dedicated and professional team, and I am privileged to work alongside them.”

Below are some of the highlights taken from the inspection report:

Overall experiences and progress of children and young people

The inspectors found that staff at Norton Court House understood the needs of the children and young people well. Staff nurture positive relationships built on trust, which enables them to feel relaxed and safe.

At Norton Court House, staff take the time to understand how each child communicates best. The children and young people are found to feel heard and involved in their daily routines. They’re supported by staff to work towards monthly goals tailored to their individual needs, and their progress is visible.

The staff and manager provide good support to children and young people with their education. The services advocate for children and young people to receive the education they are entitled to, which meets their needs. The staff were also able to demonstrate their support in completing their schoolwork at Norton Court House.

How well children and young people are helped and protected

The inspectors found that risk assessments and care plans at Norton Court House are regularly reviewed and updated, ensuring staff always have access to current and relevant information.

Inspectors noted that written records provide clear and practical guidance, enabling staff to identify and respond to concerns promptly.

Ofsted also praised the team’s understanding of each child’s unique vulnerabilities. Staff are attuned to the changing needs of the children and young people as they grow, offering effective support in areas such as online safety, relationships, and building independence.

The report highlighted how staff help children and young people connect their thoughts, feelings, and actions, giving them greater awareness and enabling them to manage their behaviour more positively.

Collaborative work with specialist services was also commended, with inspectors noting that this close working has contributed to positive outcomes.

Regarding safeguarding, the report noted that staff follow clear whistleblowing procedures when concerns arise. A designated ‘speak-up champion’ is also in place to ensure that everyone understands the process and feels supported in raising issues.

The effectiveness of leaders and managers

The report highlighted the commitment and enthusiasm of the manager and deputy in delivering quality care.

Inspectors found that the manager takes swift and effective action, particularly when delays occur in planning. Through strong working relationships and by offering children and young people access to independent advocacy, the manager ensures each child’s voice is heard.

The inspector also noted that robust monitoring systems are in place. These help the team track progress, address vulnerabilities, and close any gaps in planning. As a result, staff can provide consistent, responsive care.

Staff spoke positively about the leadership. Staff are well supported, and the manager invests in the team through regular training and team-building activities.

This final report upgrade reflects the dedication and hard work of the Norton Court House team.

Congratulations to all involved in this outstanding achievement!

For further information about Norton Court House, please visit their webpage.