Children’s services in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames have been awarded an ‘Outstanding’ rating by Ofsted, demonstrating unwavering commitment to providing high-quality support for children, young people, and families.
Achieving for Children (AfC), the not-for-profit social enterprise that delivers children’s services in Kingston, has once again demonstrated its dedication to excellence, securing the highest rating in all five areas of assessment. This marks Kingston’s second consecutive ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted rating, solidifying its position as one of the top-performing local authorities in the country.
Established in 2014, Achieving for Children (AfC) was created by Kingston and Richmond councils to deliver children's services. The organisation’s approach focuses on putting children and families at the heart of decision-making, ensuring that support services are tailored to their unique needs. Ofsted’s latest inspection highlights how this collaborative model is achieving exceptional outcomes for children and families in Kingston.
AfC’s commitment to early intervention and targeted support has been pivotal in its success. Inspectors praised the borough’s comprehensive early help services, stating that:
“Children and families benefit from highly effective early help services. Family hubs provide an extensive range of universal, specialist and targeted support that is making a difference to the lives of vulnerable children.”
Ofsted
This proactive approach ensures that children receive the right support at the right time, preventing the need for statutory intervention and enabling families to build resilience and long-term stability.
Outstanding in every area
The Ofsted inspection assessed Kingston’s children’s services against five key criteria, with all areas rated ‘Outstanding’:
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The impact of leaders on social work practice with children and families: Ofsted highlighted that Kingston’s leaders are “strong and committed advocates for children and young people.” Their ambitious plans and financial investment have ensured the sustainability of outstanding services.
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The experiences and progress of children who need help and protection: Social workers provide prompt and decisive interventions, ensuring children’s safety. Inspectors noted that “children benefit from comprehensive, analytical and thoughtful assessments, so their needs are fully understood.”
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The experiences and progress of children in care: Kingston is ambitious for every child in care, ensuring their talents and achievements are celebrated. Children develop strong relationships with their social workers, who work creatively to support their needs.
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The experiences and progress of care leavers: Young people leaving care benefit from an extensive range of support, ensuring a smooth transition to adulthood. Ofsted commended Kingston’s Children in Care Council for its role in shaping services and highlighted how care leavers influence service design.
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Overall effectiveness: The report described Kingston’s children’s services as “creative and innovative,” praising the borough’s relentless focus on improvement and its dedication to achieving the best outcomes for children and families.
Ian Dodds, Executive Director of Children’s Services at Achieving for Children, expressed his pride in the achievement:
“Ofsted’s judgement that our children’s services are outstanding is a brilliant achievement for everyone working in Kingston’s children’s services, our partners, our foster carers and our children, young people and families. It is a validation of the dedication, hard work and skill of our practitioners and their commitment to putting children and young people at the heart of everything we do.”
Ian Dodds, Achieving for Children
Royal Borough of Kingston’s Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services, Cllr Diane White, also welcomed the result:
“I’m absolutely delighted and very proud that our Children’s Services have been judged to be Outstanding by Ofsted. For the second consecutive time inspectors came in and could see the amazing work that goes on in our borough.”
Diane White, Kingston
Why work for Achieving for Children?
Kingston offers a rewarding environment for social workers, with high levels of professional support and career development opportunities. The borough is committed to investing in its workforce, ensuring that practitioners have the resources and training necessary to excel in their roles. Their offer includes:
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A role in an organisation that prioritises support and professional growth
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A structured induction programme, including a welcome event on your first day
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29 days annual leave, increasing to 33 days after two years and 35 days after four years
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Local Government salary and pension scheme (LGPS or Teachers Pension)
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Hybrid and mobile working with the necessary technology provided
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Relocation packages available for selected roles
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Travel assistance package, including mileage reimbursement, season ticket loans, or business Oyster cards
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Two days accredited Signs of Safety Foundation Training
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12 protected development days annually for all staff
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Access to a vast range of professional development opportunities via the regional Social Work Teaching Partnership
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Additional financial payments available for specific hard-to-fill roles
Kingston upon Thames is a borough that prioritises children’s well-being, education, and safety. Its continued success in children’s services is a testament to the dedication of social workers, leaders, and partner organisations. As Achieving for Children builds on their achievements in Kingston, they are seeking social workers who are passionate about making a difference in children’s lives.