Children’s charity’s ‘transformative’ camps praised by Ofsted

Over The Wall Camp is celebrating after receiving an ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted rating for its “exceptional and transformative” camps for children with long-term health conditions and disabilities.

The charity provides free-of-charge residential and virtual camps for children aged eight to 17 years, and their families.

The camps empower children and families to explore new possibilities and rediscover the fun and magic of childhood, while addressing the isolation and low self-confidence that often accompany childhood illness.

Children enjoy a wide range of fun activities, supported by volunteers and staff, including a full medical team.

Having attended a camp this summer, Ofsted inspectors highlighted the “nurturing and engaging interactions between Over The Wall Camp staff, volunteers and children”.

The Ofsted report said: “The camp provides a safe and supportive environment where children can relax, let go of worries and anxieties, and fully embrace the joys of childhood, having fun, forming friendships and creating lasting memories.”

The report also commended the Over The Wall Camp team for their “compassionate and child-centred ethos”.

The Ofsted inspector interacted with children and families throughout the visit to gain their views.

Families were noted to “consistently praise the professionalism, enthusiasm and support offered by staff and volunteers” and described camps as a “lifeline”.

Kevin Mathieson, chief executive at Over The Wall Camp, said: “We are all absolutely delighted to have received our ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted rating.

“It’s a real reflection of the hard work and commitment of Over The Wall Camp staff and volunteers to ensure that all our camps are memorable and life-changing experiences for everyone who attends.”

The Ofsted rating comes at an exciting time for Over The Wall Camp as it begins development work on its new permanent site in the former Ockbrook School, near Derby.

In 2024, the charity secured a lease for the former school, which closed in June 2021.

The first phase of the transformation work is to create wheelchair-accessible accommodation and communal spaces, ready to welcome children and families in summer 2026.