A WIRRAL school for children with special educational needs has won a prestigious award.

The Observatory School in Bidston was handed the 'SEND Provision Award' during at Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral.

The prize is handed out to the school that demonstrates an increase in the quality of care and education being provided to pupils with special educational needs.

Headteacher Elaine Idris says: "We do everything that we possibly can to have a positive impact on the education and lives of the pupils in our care.

"By the time they reach us we are quite often a lifeline to them, and also to their parents or carers.

"We have to make a difference very quickly, which is what drives our dynamic programme in and outside the classroom.

"Our team is dedicated to developing a committed relationship with each young person in our care, and I am pleased to see this hard work being recognised."

Earlier this year, the school’s 'World's Wettest Classroom’ project featured on the BBC's School Report News Day, with pupils crewing a ship sailing from Eastham Lock along the Manchester Ship Canal to Media City in Salford and appearing on BBC Breakfast.

Pupils and staff are set to hit the waves again later this month for an even more ambitious journey to Iceland, led by Greg Chiswell of the school.

Cllr Tony Smith, cabinet member for children and family services, said: "This award recognises the fantastic achievements of the whole school family, including staff, pupils and governors.

‘The projects that the school have created are innovative and are making a real difference to the lives of children."