A centre in Kingsbury for young people with special needs which was named after a paralympian wheelchair star has been rated outstanding by education watchdogs, Ofsted.
The Ade Adepitan Short Breaks Centre in Grove Park, received its excellence rating for improving the lives children and young people with profound learning and physical disabilities, and providing support to their families.
The centre was officially opened in 2013 by Paralympian and television presenter Ade Adepitan in modern buildings next to the Village School.
It offers short-break residential support working with 60 children a year up to the age of 18.
Mr Adepitan played 90 times for the Team GB wheelchair basketball team gaining 90 caps for Great Britain, including at the 2004 Paralympic Games in Athens and at the 2005 Paralympic World Cup in Manchester.
Ofsted applauded the centre for providing highly effective and high quality services for young people many of whom have complex needs, including autism and sensory impairments.
The report praised skilled staff, the challenges and experiences offered to children, and partnerships with other professions.
Young people stay at the centre for anything from a few hours to a few nights, giving them the opportunity to take part in sports, music and other activities which help to make them more confident and independent in their everyday lives.
The activities also encourage them to build friendships and take part in community events while giving their families a short break from caring.
Cllr Ruth Moher, Brent Council’s lead member for children and young people, said: “I know how important it is for families to have regular and reliable short breaks from caring and how vital it is for disabled children and young people to have the chance to do fun things away from the family and take part in opportunities they may not always get.
That’s why I’m delighted that the first-class support which disabled children are receiving at the centre has been recognised as outstanding.
“The Ade Adepitan centre and its staff are improving the life chances and improving the independence and wellbeing of some of disabled young people and that’s something of which we should all be very proud.”
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