A SECONDARY school for children with learning difficulties has been rated described as “outstanding” in every category after an inspection.

Hazelbeck School in Bingley was given top marks after a recent Ofsted visit, with – inspectors found pupils at the school having made “exceptional progress.”

The school, which also has a sixth form provision, was praised for its leadership, behaviour of pupils, quality of teaching, the achievement of pupils and for its sixth form provision.

Hazelbeck opened in April 2010, has 114 pupils on its roll and is co-located with Beckfoot School to form the Beckfoot and Hazelbeck Learning Community. This was its first inspection as an academy.

Pupils at the school have conditions such as learning difficulties, autism and sensory impairments, with many having physical disabilities or mobility issues.

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The report says: “Students are very happy in class and this can be seen by the smiles and appreciation that they demonstrate when working with the adults. Their attitudes to learning are superb.”

Head Sue Pierce said: "Ofsted’s highest possible endorsement of the work students, staff, parents and governors have completed is a real thrill for all those involved. Most of all, Ofsted could see we put students at the heart of everything we do and as a result they thoroughly enjoy their school and learning.”

Councillor Ralph Berry, Executive for Children’s Services on Bradford Council, said: “Hazelbeck is not only providing a first-class education to its own pupils with learning difficulties but it is also working in very close partnership with other special schools in Bradford to share expertise across the district. I congratulate the school for this outstanding success.”