Inspectors from the education watchdog rated Newham Council’s children’s services as ‘outstanding’ in every category following an inspection in November 2025.
The report praised Newham’s approach to supporting children in need of help and protection, those in care, and care leavers, noting the quality and consistency of care and stable relationships with support workers.
Mayor of Newham Rokhsana Fiaz OBE said: “I am over the moon that we have achieved outstanding across all areas of the Ofsted inspection for our Children’s Services, the first time ever that Newham Council has met the coveted Ofsted gold standard. It also reflects the passion of our committed and dedicated Children’s Services team, and I am proud of them very much today.”
The report highlighted the effectiveness of early help, the council’s deep understanding of the borough’s diverse community, and the impact of relationship-based practice.
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It also praised Newham’s ‘Circles of Support’ model, which is fully embedded across all areas of the service, and the council’s strong focus on keeping children within their kinship networks.
Sarah Ruiz, deputy mayor and cabinet member for children’s services, education, and sustainable transport, said: “Being rated ‘outstanding’ is an extraordinary achievement and a testament to every member of staff who continue to put our children and young people at the heart of everything we do in Newham.
“The whole team from leadership down through each member of staff has made this happen and I couldn’t be prouder of them.”
Ofsted commended the council’s “highly ambitious and accessible senior leadership team” and “strong political support for children’s services.” The report also highlighted the council’s clear strategic leadership, well-established partnerships, and investment in the workforce.
Laura Eden, corporate director of children’s and young people services, said: “I am delighted that our relational, innovative, and culturally competent services to children, young people and their families have been recognised by our regulator, Ofsted.
“I am grateful to our dedicated practitioners and managers who make a difference daily to the lives of children, young people, parents, carers and families.”
