The 9 Quality Standards form the foundation of how children’s homes in England are regulated and inspected. Set out in the Children’s Homes England Regulations 2015, these standards ensure that every child living in residential care receives nurturing, structured, and empowering support.
At The Aurora Way, these standards are not simply regulatory requirements. They shape our philosophy of care. They guide how we recruit staff, plan support, deliver therapeutic practice, and create environments where children can thrive.
The Quality and Purpose of Care Standard
Each child should experience care that is warm, personalised, and built around an understanding of their unique history, needs, and identity.
How The Aurora Way meets this
Every child has a tailored care plan, therapeutic routines embedded into daily life, and consistent key worker support that builds stability and trust.
The Children’s Wishes and Feelings Standard
Children should feel listened to, respected, and actively involved in decisions about their care and daily lives.
How The Aurora Way meets this
Children contribute to house meetings, daily routines, meal planning, and personal goal setting. Their views are recorded, reviewed, and reflected in planning decisions.
The Education Standard
Every child should receive education that supports their needs, nurtures their strengths, and promotes long term achievement.
How The Aurora Way meets this
We work closely with mainstream schools, specialist provisions, and alternative education providers. Where necessary, we coordinate additional tutoring and learning support to maintain progress.
The Enjoyment and Achievement Standard
Children should experience fun, creativity, and success in ways that build confidence and identity.
How The Aurora Way meets this
We provide regular outings, structured in house activities, celebration of milestones, and opportunities for children to explore hobbies and interests they choose themselves.
The Health and Wellbeing Standard
Children must have access to high quality physical, emotional, and mental healthcare.
How The Aurora Way meets this
Our homes operate within a trauma informed framework. We coordinate health appointments, support therapeutic services, and embed emotional wellbeing support into everyday interactions.
The Positive Relationships Standard
Children should develop healthy, safe, and trusting relationships with adults and peers.
How The Aurora Way meets this
Staff are trained in attachment informed practice and conflict de escalation. We prioritise relationship building, emotional regulation, and repairing trust where it has previously broken down.
The Protection of Children Standard
Children must be safeguarded from harm and supported to understand and manage risk safely.
How The Aurora Way meets this
We maintain robust safeguarding procedures, structured supervision, and individualised risk management plans that balance safety with opportunity.
The Leadership and Management Standard
Children’s homes should be led by capable, reflective, and accountable leaders who continually improve the service.
How The Aurora Way meets this
Each home is led by an experienced Registered Manager, supported by senior leadership oversight, clinical supervision, and regular quality audits that drive continuous improvement.
The Care Planning Standard
Every child must have a clear, purposeful plan for their future, whether that involves reunification, long term care, or preparation for independence.
How The Aurora Way meets this
We focus on transition planning, regular review meetings, and close collaboration with local authorities, families, and external professionals to ensure each child’s pathway is intentional and well supported.
Why These Standards Matter
These nine standards form the framework against which Ofsted inspects children’s homes. More importantly, they represent what every child deserves.
A home that recognises their potential.
A team that understands their needs.
A structure that prepares them for the future.
At The Aurora Way, the 9 Quality Standards are not checklists. They are the daily principles that shape how we care.
To explore our approach further, you may also find these helpful:
What Makes a Good Children’s Home?
How to Open a Children’s Home Franchise Model
Safeguarding in Children’s Homes
