A SPECIAL school in Ramsbottom has been praised in a report by Ofsted inspectors.

Rossendale School, in Bamford Road, was singled out for the quality of its teaching, and that pupils made good progress.

The school, which caters for children with a range of behavioural, emotional and social difficulties, was rated as "outstanding" in three criteria and "good" in three more, with an overall ‘good’ rating.

The report also said the school's sixth form curriculum was "very effective", with the overall quality care of pupils rated as "outstanding".

It said: "The leadership and management of the school and the residential provision are outstanding and the school is highly successful at engaging with parents.

"It is tenacious when working with other agencies to ensure the well-being of young people."

The report added: "Pupils have positive attitudes to learning, and make excellent improvements in behaviour over time because of the support and encouragement they receive from the whole staff. The passion and commitment of senior leaders drive the school forward."

One pupil at the school told Ofsted inspectors: "I love coming to school – it’s done so much for me.’

A parent added: "The best feeling in the world is being able to send your child to school knowing they are happy and safe and you know you don’t have to worry about them."

The independent school, which is run by Priory Education Services, was opened in 1989 and offers day and residential services for young people with difficulties such as autism.

Helen Sharpe, managing director of Priory Education Services, said: "The highly positive report is terrific testament to the hard work and dedication of staff, the pupils, their families and carers.

"To achieve the most positive outcomes for our children and young people is at the very heart of what we do, and to receive this praise and verification from Ofsted is incredibly rewarding."