'We are incredibly proud': The Rainbow Centre becomes first conductive education setting graded 'exceptional' in all areas

A charity that supports children with complex disabilities has become the UK’s first educational setting to be graded “exceptional” in all areas under Ofsted’s new framework.

The Rainbow Centre, in Fareham, has been dubbed “extraordinary” after being inspected by Ofsted at the end of last year.

The published findings highlighted that “staff expertly design and deliver an innovative curriculum” that allows children to make the highest level of progress. There are meticulous plans in place for each activity which “provides children with a robust foundation for future learning.”

Children make execptional progress through a tailored approach which helps development in communication form at an early start. This means young people at the centre forms lasting friendships with one another.

Rachael Ives, chief executive of The Rainbow Centre, said: “We are incredibly proud of this achievement and dedicate it to our remarkable children we have the privilege to support every day.

“This recognition is a testament to our whole team, whose dedication and unwavering belief in every child help make achievements like this possible. At the heart of everything we do is the belief that a person’s potential should never be defined by their challenges and we are proud that this report captures that so clearly.”

The report also highlighted that the centre, which was established in 1990 by a group of parents, uses a conductive approach to “empower children and honour every milestone they meet.”

It added: “Leaders are inspirational and consistently ensure that children's best interests are at the heart of all decision-making. Leaders have made a transformational impact on the setting's priorities.

“Leaders and staff are unrelenting in searching for ways to enable access for all children. Nothing is impossible, and leaders have completed a qualification in advanced SEND law to be able to better understand and navigate the education, health and care plan process and ultimately support families to access the support that children need.”

The Rainbow Centre, which works with children and adults with cerebral palsy and neurological conditions, provides conductive education, an early intervention group, a booster club, holiday clubs and Saturday club for kids.

Ms Ives added: “The report highlights the trust that parents place in us every day. We are not only a place of specialist support but a safe, nurturing environment where their child is cared for, valued and genuinely loved.”

Safeguarding measures are met at the setting. For more information about The Rainbow Centre’s Ofsted report, click here.