A WIRRAL special school has been awarded the highest award in education for the third time running.

Staff at the West Kirby Residential School were given the five-star accolade by Ofsted when every area inspected was rated outstanding by inspectors.

The five outstanding verdicts came in: achievement of pupils, quality of teaching, behaviour and safety of pupils, leadership and management and overall effectiveness.

Principal, Gareth Williams, said he was absolutely delighted that the hard work and dedication of everyone involved with the school had been recognised.

He added: "It has given us all a tremendous boost to know that we compare with the best in the country."

The non-maintained school caters for the special educational and behavioural needs of over 90 children, most of whom have autistic spectrum disorders.

Around a fifth of these are residential. The pupils come from various authorities in the North West and Wales.

In their report, Ofsted inspectors said: "The school continues to provide an excellent education. Senior staff have not rested on their laurels. They continue to drive forward improvements…"

Praising the high level of outstanding teaching the inspectors said: "The achievements of the pupils are excellent…because of the consistently high quality teaching and care they receive."

Chairman of governors and board of directors John Wylie added: "Gareth and his team are continuously achieving amazing things with some of the most challenging children.

"I'm so pleased that Ofsted can see how well we safeguard and support the children and give them the skills and confidence to face life beyond school."

WKRS’ principal is a National Leader in Education and the school is a National Support School and has been awarded International School status.
WKRS is a registered charity managed by the governors and directors.