Ofsted “hat trick” for special school

WARRINGTON’S Green Lane School is in the limelight for achieving an outstanding Ofsted rating three times in a row.
This month’s inspection of the community special school gave an outstanding rating in every single area, and praised the “exceptionally high levels of care which ensures that progress is outstanding”.
Inspectors said: “The behaviour and attitudes of pupils was exemplary” and teachers were praised for the “quality of teaching which continues to improve”.
Governors’ support and the work of teaching assistants were also highly commended along with specific provision for pupils with autistic spectrum.
The report also stated that “leaders constantly ensure that the quality of teaching and pupils’ achievement are outstanding and continue to improve”.
Inspectors said extremely effective arrangements are in place to ensure that all pupils are very safe and all safeguarding requirements are fully met across all the different areas in the school.
Cllr Jean Carter (pictured), the borough council’s lead member for children’s services, said: “I am delighted that Green Lane School, once again has achieved an outstanding Ofsted rating, in every single area of the inspection. The impressive report is testament to the hard work,
dedication and commitment from the head teacher, teachers, and governors.”
Head teacher Paul King, who was praised for his “extremely effective leadership and sensitive yet steely determination” said: “To receive this fantastic rating three times in a row is an amazing accolade and everyone in the school can take credit for playing their part to secure yet another outstanding rating.”
The inspectors’ only recommendation – to improve the outdoor learning opportunities in the early years – is already being acted on.
Green Lane, which is in the Woolston Learning Village, in Holes Lane, Woolston, caters for pupils aged four to 19 and all the pupils have statements of special educational need because of moderate or severe learning difficulties.
The previous Ofsted inspections for Green Lane School were in May 2007, and October 2009.