Ashley High School in Widnes has once again been judged "outstanding" by Ofsted.

The school previously achieved this grade in 2015.

Ashley High School and Sixth Form caters for pupils with high-functioning autism and social communication needs.

It received outstanding across all areas of the new inspection framework including the quality of education, curriculum and personal development.

Runcorn and Widnes World:

Ofsted inspectors reported: "This is an exceptional school where every pupil is supported to achieve their full potential.

"By the time that pupils are ready to leave Ashley High School they have the skills, knowledge and confidence to take their next steps in life, education and work."

Headteacher Linda King said: "We are absolutely thrilled that Ofsted have once again acknowledged our school as outstanding.

"I am so proud of the whole team who continually work so hard to enable our students to achieve their full potential.

"I am particularly pleased that the inspectors acknowledged how our provision has grown and developed since the last inspection and have recognised the ambition we have for all our students and the passion, expertise and commitment of every member of our team."

The report continued to praise the relationship between staff and pupils: "Pupils feel valued and listened to.

"They have warm and friendly relationships with the staff and each other.

"Staff know and understand the needs of every pupil extremely well. Consequently, pupils feel settled, happy and safe at the school.

"Pupils’ behaviour is excellent."

The report continues: "The culture of safeguarding in school is very strong."

The wider curriculum was acknowledged as offering "a rich and exciting mix of opportunities…to extend their learning beyond the classroom and understand the wider world.

"Leaders are highly-effective in their work to improve the school.

"All staff are highly skilled...so that pupils flourish in their studies, achievements and personal development.

The sixth form provision which opened in September, 2014 "prepares students well for their next steps in education and life."

Inspectors were particularly impressed with the "recently introduced supported internships which are having a positive impact and some students are now in paid employment." 

And an independent living space replicates a small flat allowing students to learn skills that will enable them to live independently.