Ofsted’s latest annual report reveals both inspiring work across early years, schools, children’s social care and further education, and stark challenges for the most vulnerable children.

While many young people enjoy a smooth path to adulthood, those growing up in care or facing disadvantage continue to encounter significant barriers.

The report warns that outcomes for children in care remain far poorer than their peers, due to a lack of coordinated support across education, care, and wider services. Despite a 15% rise in children’s home registrations, bringing the total to over 4,000 – the highest on record, serious issues persist around location, affordability, and suitability. More than a quarter of homes are in the North West, which accounts for just 18% of looked-after children, raising concerns about profit-driven motives distorting the system.