Celebrations are underway at a York school after its latest inspection.
Danesgate Community, a specialist provision of about 176 pupils aged five to 16, many with complex social, emotional and education needs, has been praised by Ofsted.
The watchdog, which no longer uses single-word judgements, found the school in Fulford Cross to be of a “strong standard” for inclusion, achievement, and attendance and behaviour.
It was found to be of the “expected standard” for its curriculum and teaching, leadership and governance, and personal development and wellbeing.
The school said the rating places Danesgate Community among the top-performing alternative provision and social, emotional and mental health settings nationwide.
Head teacher Chris Nichols thanked staff and pupils following the two-day inspection in September.
"I am thrilled to share the fantastic results of our latest inspection," he said. "This outcome is a testament to the hard work, resilience and heart of our entire school family ... our amazing pupils, dedicated staff, supportive parents and carers, governors and local authority partners."
Mr Nichols added: "To achieve expected standard or higher across every single category evaluated is an exceptional result, and it reflects the incredible journey our school has been on over the last three years.
"While we are celebrating this fantastic success, we also recognize this is not our final destination; we will use this momentum as a springboard to keep improving, refining our provision, and ensuring Danesgate becomes an even better place to support young people with SEN [special educational needs] as we continue to strive, thrive, and achieve together."
In the report, Ofsted inspectors said Danesgate pupils “achieve well” and “demonstrate rapid academic progress and progress in their personal and social development”.
"Most pupils leave school with a range of qualifications, including GCSEs, vocational qualifications and functional skills," the report said. "Teachers celebrate pupils’ achievements wholeheartedly.
"Most pupils can demonstrate progress in their mastery of life skills. For example, by being able to cook a meal, manage money or travel independently.
"Other pupils gain the practical skills they need for adult life, such as working in the community or caring for animals.
"Pupils enjoy reading, writing and mathematics and make great progress over time.”
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Ofsted’s inspectors also found the school’s attendance figures are high and “continually improving”.
"This is notable given the pupils’ different needs," the report said. "Leaders track attendance carefully. They quickly notice when a pupil’s attendance falls.”
The report added that pupils “behave well in lessons and around the school”. "They are calm and treat adults, including visitors, with respect.
"Leaders set high expectations and, together with pupils, they establish clear and understood rules.
"Staff use calm and appropriate language to help pupils take responsibility for their choices."
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