SCHOOL staff and pupils were celebrating today after a big vote of approval from inspectors - and parents.

Crosshill School, Shadsworth Road, Blackburn, was described as "good with many strengths" by a team of Ofsted inspectors. And a survey of parents by the standards squad found 99 per cent agreed their child likes the school.

A report compiled by the inspectors praised the quality of education at Crosshill, saying: "The quality of teaching among established staff is a strength of the school with examples of good teaching in all subjects in most key stages and examples of very good teaching in almost all subjects.

"The school has earned the affection and respect of its pupils and parents. There is a much-valued open door policy and parents know they can approach staff formally or informally at any time. in addition to planned open evenings and special events."

The school caters for 136 pupils aged from five to 16 with moderate learning difficulties.

The report adds: "The quality of learning demonstrated by the pupils prepares them well for the next stage of their education."

Inspectors also noted the importance the school was placing on plans to take part in a summer literacy project as well as making a joint bid with a mainstream school to become a specialist in technology.

Headteacher Mike Hatch said the report had summed up the hard work being carried out by the school.

He said: "We are very proud of our school and the Ofsted inspection has proved what we knew all along - that we have a hard-working team of staff, pupils, parents and governors."

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