A SCHOOL in Yate has been given the best birthday present staff and pupils could have wished for.

Culverhill Special School, in Kelston Close, is celebrating after receiving an ‘outstanding’ Ofsted report during its 10th anniversary year.

Inspectors said that the school, which caters for pupils with learning difficulties, had made outstanding achievements including improvements in mathematics and sports.

Inspector Charles Hackett said: "Culverhill is an outstanding special school where pupils receive excellent levels of care and attention.

"Inspired by a highly committed headteacher and strong senior leadership team, there is a real drive and commitment from the whole staff team for the school to do its very best for each pupil.

"Pupils are treated as individuals, ensured equality of opportunity to achieve and given highly effective support and guidance."

Inspectors said pupils’ behaviour had greatly improved since the last Ofsted report in 2007, when there were ‘frequent exclusions’.

Said Mr Hackett: "This situation is now much improved, no permanent exclusions have been issued for over two years and the use of short fixed-term exclusions is very rare."

He said the school had excellent links with support groups and outside organisations, which helped prepare pupils for the next stage of their lives.

Headteacher Nicola Jones said: "Pupils, staff, parents and governors are all delighted about our ‘outstanding’ inspection grade from Ofsted. "This is a vindication of the hard work and determination shown by staff, governors and of course, the pupils themselves.

"It is particularly gratifying to receive such good news in the school’s 10th anniversary year. We will be planning a day in January 2010 to fully celebrate our wonderful school and its great achievements."

Cllr Sheila Cook, executive member for children and young people at South Gloucestershire Council, said: "I am very pleased that Ofsted has recognised the excellent achievements of the staff, governors and pupils of Culverhill School.

"The ‘outstanding’ inspection grade is well deserved and reflects the excellent work that the school does. "

Inspectors said to improve further, teachers should take account of the different abilities of pupils when talking to a whole class.