AN ‘outstanding’ special school in Rowley Regis has been praised by inspectors in its latest Ofsted report.

Leaders at Westminster School have been commended for their commitment to “improving the life chances of pupils with special educational needs”, while aspects of the school’s work on supported apprenticeships are “at the forefront of national developments”.

Inspectors visited the Curral Road school for two days in November before recently publishing their findings, giving it the best marks possible.

The report’s highlighted the school’s effectiveness, saying it had improved dramatically in recent years due to “the inspirational leadership of the headteacher and the dynamism, enthusiasm and commitment of the senior team and governors”.

Inspectors noted that pupils’ behaviour was excellent and teachers and support staff are highly skilled, and as a result pupils make “strong progress” in their learning and personal development.

The school’s Post-16 provision was also praised for focussing “sharply on making sure that students maximise their potential”, while pupils’ personal development and welfare was particularly commended by inspectors.

One pupil told inspectors the support his teachers and staff had given him had changed not just his life, but his parents too.

Christine Hill, headteacher, said: “We are extremely pleased that Ofsted recognises our commitment to improving the life changes of all of our pupils.

“We are delighted that the inspectors said they saw a lot of laughter and enjoyment in lessons and in school, as this reflects the excellent relationships between staff and pupils.

“The ‘outstanding’ rating is testament to the hard work and dedication of staff, pupils, parents and governors and we are very proud of our achievements.”