OFSTED has praised the workforce and the leadership of children’s services at Bristol City Council.
In their report published last month inspectors said: “Committed and determined political and corporate leadership is bringing positive change to children in Bristol.”
Most children in need and those under child protection plans were receiving timely and appropriate support, benefiting from well-coordinated multi-agency planning, they said.
Other positive comments included: ‘workforce morale is high’, ‘practitioners love working for Bristol’ and ‘there is an unwavering commitment to improving services and support for children’.
The findings, based on Ofsted’s inspection in December 2025, also highlighted two areas for improvement, including the quality of safety plans and note-taking in records.
The inspection assessed the council’s arrangements for children in need, child protection planning, and private fostering arrangements.
The report acknowledged the council’s stable senior leadership team, and increasingly permanent workforce, which have enhanced social work practices and the quality of support provided to children. It notes that workforce morale is high, with staff expressing their appreciation for the supportive environment and their ability to make a positive difference in the lives of vulnerable children.
A full Inspecting Local Authority Children’s Service’s Ofsted inspection is due in Bristol within the next six months.
Councillor Christine Townsend, chair of the children and young people committee, said she was really pleased that Ofsted has recognised the significant progress made in improving children’s services in Bristol. She said: “This outcome reflects the hard work and dedication of our staff, who are committed to making a positive difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families.
“We are really proud of the progress made particularly in workforce culture and practice which is fundamental to how we can support children and young people. There will always be areas for improvement, and we are confident of being able to progress those highlighted in the report. Our unwavering commitment to putting children at the heart of everything we do remains stronger than ever.”
Academy trust has new chair
AN educational trust that runs eight schools in Bristol has a new chair.
Toby Watson has stepped from Excalibur Academies Trust after eight years and is replaced by Susan Clarke.
Nick Lewis, chief executive officer, said: “We are extremely grateful for the significant contribution that Toby has made over the past eight years. His leadership, insight and commitment have been instrumental in the trust’s growth and success, and we thank him sincerely for all he has done.
“I am delighted to welcome Susan to her new role as Chair of Trustees. Her experience and values will ensure strong governance as we continue to build on our success and serve our communities.”
Susan, a founding member of Excalibur in 2012, was previously vice chair. She said: “My focus will be to ensure that all children receive the best possible education with diversity, inclusivity and fairness at the heart of our work.”
Excalibur has 20 schools including Fairfield High School, Redland Green School, Ashton Park School and five Bristol primaries.