Manor Hall Academy Trust is delighted to celebrate the outcome of the recent Ofsted Residential Inspection at Loxley Hall School, which judged the residential provision to be Good across all key areas. The inspection recognised the exceptional experiences and progress of young people, the strength of safeguarding arrangements and the commitment of leaders and staff to continually improving outcomes for pupils.
The inspection highlighted the remarkable impact the residential provision has on the lives of the young people who access it. Inspectors found that children enjoy their residential experience, make exceptional progress and benefit from positive, trusting relationships with dedicated staff who know them well.
For Manor Hall Academy Trust, this judgement reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that every child has access to an environment where they feel safe, valued and supported to succeed.
Supporting Young People Beyond the School Day
The report praised the welcoming and homely residential environment at Loxley Hall, where pupils have access to a wide range of enriching experiences and activities. From attending live sporting events and cinema trips to participating in recreational activities such as golf, the residential team works hard to broaden horizons and create opportunities that help young people build confidence and independence.
Importantly, inspectors recognised that these opportunities are made available to all pupils accessing the provision, helping to ensure inclusion and equal access regardless of individual circumstances.
Sector-Leading Work in Mental Health and Wellbeing
A significant strength identified within the inspection was Loxley Hall’s commitment to mental health and emotional wellbeing. Inspectors noted that leaders have worked tirelessly to develop research-informed practice and place wellbeing at the centre of the residential experience.
This work has already gained national recognition, with Loxley Hall becoming the first school in the country to achieve a Gold Mark award for its mental health provision. Inspectors found that this approach has helped staff develop a deep understanding of trauma-informed practice, enabling them to provide highly effective support for children and young people.
Dedicated Staff Making a Difference
The inspection recognised the professionalism, knowledge and commitment of the residential team. Staff were praised for the relationships they build with pupils, their strong safeguarding knowledge and the variety of skills and experiences they bring to the provision. Inspectors also acknowledged the school’s strong culture of professional learning, with regular training and development opportunities helping staff continually enhance their practice.
The report further highlighted that the quality of practice at Loxley Hall is so highly regarded that staff are invited to share their expertise with other schools and newly qualified teachers across the sector.
A Commitment to Continuous Improvement
While celebrating the many strengths identified during the inspection, Manor Hall Academy Trust remains committed to ongoing improvement. Ofsted identified several areas relating to safeguarding recording and oversight processes where further strengthening is required. Leaders have already begun reviewing these areas to ensure that systems continue to reflect the highest standards of transparency and accountability.
Building on Recent Success
This outcome builds on the successful education inspection undertaken in July 2025, when Loxley Hall was judged Good for Quality of Education, Behaviour and Attitudes, and Leadership and Management, alongside an Outstanding judgement for Personal Development. Inspectors described the school as a place where pupils are “genuinely seen and warmly welcomed” and where resilience, confidence and aspiration are developed every day.
Looking Ahead
Phil Harrison, CEO of Manor Hall Academy Trust, said:
“We are incredibly proud of the team at Loxley Hall and the positive impact they have on the lives of children and young people every day. This inspection recognises the dedication, expertise and care shown by colleagues across the residential provision. Most importantly, it highlights the remarkable progress our pupils are making and the opportunities they are being given to thrive. While we celebrate this achievement, we remain committed to continuous improvement and to ensuring that every child within our Trust receives the very best support, care and education.”
The Trust would like to thank the staff, leaders, governors, trustees, families and, above all, the young people whose achievements and resilience continue to make Loxley Hall a place where pupils can grow, succeed and look forward to a positive future.