'Outstanding' marks for Dudley special school for third time in a row

Inspectors said the Old Park School in Thorns Road, Dudley, 'continues to be outstanding' following a visit in November.

It follows on from previous visits by the education watchdog in 2010 and 2013 in which the school – which teaches children with severe and complex learning difficulties – also received an 'outstanding' rating.

In the latest report, inspectors said the 'good and outstanding teaching' enabled the school's pupils to make 'excellent progress'. It said pupils felt 'valued and confident' and compassion shown by staff to children was 'heart-warming'.

Inspectors said senior leaders were dynamic and forward thinking – and praised leadership at the school and 'exceptionally strong' progress made by pupils.

The report added that parents felt assured their children were safe at the school and were incredibly grateful for the support provided to them.

Headteacher Gill Cartwright said: "We are absolutely delighted to have been rated ‘outstanding’ again for the third time.

"The outcome we have received is testament to the hard work of all staff and pupils and also the tremendous support we receive from governors, parents and carers.

"It has been a real team effort and I am extremely proud that this has been recognised by Ofsted.”

Alex Burns, chairman of governors at Old Park School, added: "The governors were delighted that Ofsted judged the Old Park School to be outstanding for the third time.

"The headteacher and all staff are to be congratulated for their continued work to achieve outstanding outcomes for all pupils.”