We are thrilled to share some incredible news from Cicely Haughton School, part of Manor Hall Academy Trust. Following their recent Ofsted inspection of the residential provision (10–12 November 2025), the school has once again been rated Outstanding in all areas. This achievement comes just a year after the school itself was judged Outstanding in its education inspection, reaffirming the exceptional quality of care and education provided to pupils.

Outstanding in Every Category

The Ofsted report highlights:

• Overall experiences and progress of children and young people: Outstanding
• How well children and young people are helped and protected: Outstanding
• Effectiveness of leaders and managers: Outstanding

Inspectors praised the school for delivering highly effective services that consistently exceed standards, resulting in significantly improved outcomes and positive experiences for children.

What Makes Cicely Haughton Exceptional?

• Child-Centred Care: Staff know each child deeply and tailor support to their unique needs, fostering emotional well-being and academic success.
• Strong Partnerships: Parents spoke warmly about the school’s nurturing ethos and transparent communication, saying, “This school has been the making of them.”
• Empowering Children’s Voices: Children are actively involved in decisions about their care and learning, helping them feel valued and confident.
• Safe and Supportive Environment: A robust safeguarding culture and restorative approaches ensure children feel secure and thrive.
• Inspirational Leadership: Leaders set high expectations and create a culture of excellence, supported by a dedicated and experienced staff team.

Quote from the Ofsted Report

“The residential special school provides highly effective services that consistently exceed the standards of good. The actions of the school contribute to significantly improved outcomes and positive experiences for children and young people.”

Head Teacher’s Reflection

“We are delighted that our dedication and commitment to nurturing and supporting all of our children has been recognised once again. Our staff work tirelessly to build children’s confidence, self-belief, and self-esteem, enabling them to thrive and discover their own unique path to success. Achieving this Outstanding judgment once more makes me incredibly proud of the entire team, who work so passionately to create opportunities for every child to flourish. The quotes from the Ofsted report truly capture the care and enthusiasm we bring to supporting the children we have the privilege of working with every day, and we could not be more thrilled with the result.”
– Janey Hancock, Head Teacher

Head of Care’s Reflection

“I am incredibly proud of our residential team and children who make our community so special. The recent Ofsted inspection reflects the dedication, compassion, and consistency shown every day in our provision. Inspectors recognised the strong relationships we build with the children and their parents, the high-quality care we provide, and the positive impact this has on their wellbeing, confidence, and development.
This outcome is a testament to the hard work of our staff, who always go above and beyond to ensure our residential setting is a safe, nurturing and enriching environment. I also want to thank the children who access the provision, whose voices, resilience and enthusiasm continue to shape and strengthen our practice. We look forward to building on this success and continuing to provide exceptional care and support for every child who stays with us.”
– Karen Rutter, Head of Care

CEO’s Message

“We are absolutely delighted that Ofsted has recognised the exceptional care, support, and education provided at Cicely Haughton. This outstanding judgement reflects the dedication and passion of our staff, who work tirelessly to create a safe, nurturing environment where every child can thrive. It’s a proud moment for the entire school community and our trust.”
– Phil Harrison, CEO of Manor Hall Academy Trust

A Testament to Dedication

This outstanding outcome reflects the unwavering commitment of the entire team at Cicely Haughton School. Their passion and professionalism ensure that children not only achieve academically but also develop vital life skills, resilience, and confidence for the future.

We are incredibly proud of this achievement and grateful to everyone who plays a part in making Cicely Haughton a place where every child belongs, learns, and grows.