A SPECIAL school for children with severe and complex needs has been hailed outstanding by Ofsted inspectors for the third consecutive year.

Brookfields School on Moorfield Road in Widnes currently has 81 pupils from across Halton aged four to 11.

Head teacher Sara Ainsworth and her staff were highly praised for their "high quality teaching" and "exemplary work" with parents.

In a glowing report, Ofsted inspector Amanda Stringer said: "Your dedication and passion for for what you do permeates the school.

"You and your highly skilled, enthusiastic staff embody your school motto, 'enjoy, believe and achieve together'.

"You place the development of the whole child at the centre of everything that you do.

"The school is a learning community that provides excellent education and care for your pupils.

"The strong relationship you between parents and staff ensures that you know your families extremely well and understand some of the challenges that they may face on a daily basis."

The leadership team was commended for maintaining an "outstanding quality of education".

The report highlighted the support, professional development and learning opportunities provided for staff.

The inspector added: "Staff feel highly valued and know that their wellbeing is important to you.

"Potential is spotted and nurtured. The exceptionally strong relationships within the school contribute effectively to the strong progress that pupils make.

"Staff know and understand extremely well the pupils in their care."

Head teacher Sara Ainsworth said: “We are delighted to have the recognition from Ofsted of the school’s continuous hard work and dedication towards meeting the needs of every child and family in our care.

"We strive to ensure that they reach their optimum potential through a fun, engaging and personalised learning journey.

"We are very proud of the progress and achievements of all our pupils.”