HIGH quality teaching and a very good, effective curriculum has earned a Blackpool special school top marks.

Woodlands School was visited in February by inspectors from the education watchdog OFSTED.

As well as the management and support from staff, praise was found for the good attitude, behaviour and personal development of the pupils.

Relationships throughout the school were found to be excellent as were links with the local community.

Headteacher Sam Forde said he was delighted with the report as it praised all members of the school community and reflected the continuing hard work and commitment of pupils, staff, governors and parents.

Woodlands was previously named as a highly effective school in the Chief Inspector of Schools 1997 report.

Last year it was presented with a Good School award by Stephen Byers, the then Schools Standards Minister, in recognition of its achievements. Other honours include a National Training Award and an Investor In People award.

Woodlands has a team of 30 who meet the educational needs of 75 pupils aged between two and 19 who have severe, profound or multiple learning difficulties.

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