Castle Hill Centre rated good by Ofsted inspectors

Castle Hill Young People’s Centre has been rated “good” by Ofsted, for the care and support it offers to children, their families and the wider community.

The grade marks a major achievement after an inspection saw the facility graded “inadequate” back in February.

Ofsted praised a number of strengths but raised some concerns that staff did not receive regular coaching on safeguarding procedures.

Inspectors visited again in August and said the centre’s improvement plan had delivered immediate results. The report concluded that “keeping children safe is central to the club’s culture”.

Executive cabinet member for education, schools, safeguarding and looked-after children, Cllr Ann Cunliffe, said: “This remarkable achievement is testament to the hard work of the management and staff at Castle Hill and the ongoing support they receive from the council.

“Safeguarding is the number one priority for all our children’s services and the speed at which concerns were addressed shows how seriously we take these responsibilities.

“I was delighted to see how children continue to enjoy their time at the centre and how the staff have created such a supportive, challenging and fun atmosphere.”

This latest report means that all three of Bolton Council’s childcare centres now have a “good” Ofsted rating.

Inspectors last visited Heywood Kids Club in April and concluded that “parents are highly complimentary about the manager and staff and the flexibility of the service provided”.

Barlow Park, which provides out-of-school play activities for children with SEN and disabilities, was inspected in May. Ofsted described staff as “very caring” and concluded that “parents feel valued and their children’s needs are respected”.

Cllr Cunliffe added: “Parents can be assured that all of Bolton Council’s childcare facilities offer a safe and caring environment for their children.

“We are committed to maintaining these high standards and to improving wherever possible.”