CHILDREN with special educational needs and disabilities continue to receive the highest standard of care, according to education watchdogs.

Addington School in Woodley has maintained its 'Outstanding' rating from Ofsted, with inspectors reserving high praise for 'brave and bold' leadership of Sara Attra.

Since taking over as head teacher in January, there have been a lot of changes at the specialist school, including a major restructure of the senior team.

Mrs Attra said: "We are hugely delighted to have achieved an Outstanding rating from Ofsted once again.

"It has been four years since the last inspection and we are thrilled that Ofsted found that ‘the curriculum now meets pupils’ needs even better than before and pupils report they feel safe and happy at school and enjoy their lessons and activities.’

"The staff and governing body has worked tirelessly to ensure that Addington School provides the very best, local special needs provision and we are committed to ensuring our pupils reach their potential and get the best out of life, despite any difficulties they may have."

Ofsted's October inspection identified effective safeguarding and praised school governors for their 'tireless' efforts.

The report reads: "The pupils were fully engaged and productive. The atmosphere in the classroom was both purposeful and respectful because pupils understood what needed to be achieved.

"Parents agree that their children are happy at school and they feel that they are well looked after.

"The exceptionally strong culture of safeguarding permeates throughout the school."

"Staff describe you [Mrs Attra] as ‘brave and bold’ in introducing your initiatives in order to meet pupils’ needs.

"You are passionate about the wide variety of activities that the school provides for pupils."

It was more than four years since the last inspection at Addington School, which caters for more than 200 children with a complex range of needs.

The school offers support for young people with rare genetic conditions and, with 190 staff, the care is almost one-to-one.