“Young people’s welfare, education and care needs were well met. There were good working relationships between the young persons and staff. Staff were observed to manage individual behaviours in a positive and kindly manner and the young people spoke positively about the support staff gave them.”

Ofsted

“The quality of teaching is very good. There are very supportive relationships between staff and pupils which help pupils to overcome their anxieties, develop positive attitudes to themselves and learning, and improve their social skills.”

Ofsted

“I have always been impressed by the autistic friendly approach and very individual and skilled manner in which Whinfell work with all of the young people, some of whom present with extremely unique difficulties and fears.”

Social Worker

“Always professional, friendly and ready to work in partnership. The team at Whinfell doesn't just tick boxes, but they really get to know the students. Using their tailored approach they have really found ways to make a positive difference within a few months, both educationally and socially. Thank you so much for caring and all your hard work.”

Relative of a young person

“Whinfell School actively encourages its pupils to be as individualistic and creative as possible and reach their full potential. The quality of service provided to the young people and their placing authorities is excellent.”

Portsmouth City Council

“The school provides a caring and supportive environment where staff clearly demonstrate their commitment to the care and education of pupils... Pupils are extremely well supported and effective procedures are in place to ensure the care needs and health and safety of pupils is given high priority. Staff have excellent relationships with pupils and show interest in, and listen well to pupils, who demonstrate trust and respect to adults and each other.”

Specialist Educational Psychologist (Autism), Lancashire Education Authority

“Whinfell School provides a stable and supportive environment where the service user is always at the centre of its planning. This gives the service user the opportunity to grow and develop. Whinfell School actively encourages their pupils to engage within the education system that they have developed. Each pupil is given the chance to develop his personal skills.”

Social Worker, Portsmouth CC

“I was delighted to read about your recent successful Ofsted inspection. I just wanted to commend you and all of your staff for all the hard work you put into the school, it is a real credit to the area and I so enjoy my involvement with you.”

Tim Farron MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale

“We are delighted with his progress in the six months that he has been at Whinfell and know that the environment is having a positive impact on his needs, well- being and learning style. We as his parents are comfortable to know that he his happy and safe.”

Parents of a young person

“Absolutely fantastic report on all counts, so great to see him starting to fulfil his potential by tackling issues that have hindered him for so long. I can’t say enough how appreciative I am of the hard work that everybody puts in to make this all possible! Have also spoken to the parents confirming how amazing his progress is, and re-assuring them that his achievements are beyond anything we all thought was going to be possible.”

Education Psychologist Perth & Kinross Council

“I have visited Whinfell School on several occasions, I particularly enjoyed the coffee mornings that the school holds regularly, many of the schools friends and neighbours come along to these events, everyone that visits the school and meets the students have nothing but praise for the dedication that the staff show to the students and you cannot help but be impressed by the way the young people conduct themselves. Everyone has the highest praise for the schools accomplishments.”

Co-ordinator of the South Lakeland Autism and Asperger Syndrome Support Group

“Whinfell School offers children the opportunity to develop and grow to their full potential and is inclusive. They have firm and established links with the local community and the surrounding area.”

Acting Locality Team Manager, Learning Difficulties and Disabilities Team, Cumbria CC

“You and your staff are doing a fantastic job with him. He has changed in so many ways.”

Social worker of a Whinfell School pupil