A SPECIAL needs school in Fairford has come out top of the class in its latest Ofsted report.

Coln House School, based in Horcott Road, received an overall grade of ‘Good’ as well as two ‘Outstanding’ grades last month when the results were revealed.

'Good' is the second highest of the four ratings a school can receive, with ‘outstanding’ being top and 'adequate' at third. The fourth rating, 'inadequate' means the school needs urgent improvement.

This year Coln House School has been praised for its quality of residential provision and care as well as its outcome for students who live at the school.

Headteacher Chris Clarke said he was delighted with the results, especially after last year’s negative report, when the school received 'inadequate'.

“Congratulations to all the staff and especially the new leadership team for all their hard work in getting the recognition we deserve,” he said.

The school was given a mere two hours notice before Ofsted inspectors came to visit in December last year.

Inspectors gathered information through talking to students and staff, carefully examining documents, policies and records, and sitting in on meals and activities with the pupils.

Coln House School is a residential special school catering for 35 boys and girls aged 9-16.

Ofsted inspectors praised the school for its excellent residential provision and said in the report: “Residential pupils benefit from living in an inclusive boarding community where they make excellent progress from their starting point on admission to the school.

“This is especially evident in the improvements in their behaviours and the growth of their self confidence and self esteem.”