A Burnley school has been praised for 'changing the lives of their pupils' following its first Ofsted inspection.

The Heights is an alternative provision school which opened in September 2019 as part of the Education Partnership Trust (EPT) for pupils aged five to 16 who are at risk of exclusion.

Ofsted visited the school in February to carry out its first inspection.

The inspector's report said: “Some parents spoke candidly about how the school has changed not only their child’s life but also that of the whole family.

“Pupils quickly settle into this school. They forge strong relationships with staff. This builds a strong sense of community.

"Pupils are happy to attend the school and 'appreciate the care that is shown to them by staff.

"Many pupils told inspectors that the best thing about the school is the staff."

Inspectors praised the 'behaviour of pupils in lessons, the ambitious curriculum, the support for each pupil and the calm atmosphere around the school'.  

The report also highlighted the range of physical activities and sporting challenges, the array of clubs on offer and the enhanced learning at the school with visits to museums. 

The report added: “Reading is prioritised across the school. Pupils who struggle with reading are given the support that they need to catch up quickly to their peers.

"Pupils read high-quality books that are closely matched to their phonics knowledge. They read often, growing in confidence as they do.

“Pupils told inspectors that their improvement in their regular attendance is one of the key successes of being in this school”.

Headteacher at The Heights, Natalie Lewis, said: "I am delighted the inspectors recognised that The Heights Burnley is a 'good' school where pupils are proud to be part of their school, feel safe, improve their attendance and enjoy an ambitious curriculum. 

"Our staff are experts in identifying barriers to learning and ensuring our pupils are given the opportunities they deserve to thrive. 

"We have high expectations where pupils are at the heart of everything we do.

"Our strong and ambitious curriculum allows all pupils to achieve high-quality qualifications and prepares our pupils for a successful and ambitious future. 

"Inspectors noted that at The Heights, we not only transform the lives of our pupils but also that of their wider family, and therefore our local community. 

"This amazing achievement is down to the dedication, hard work and commitment of our staff, pupils, parents, governors, academy trust and everyone connected with the school.

"I am incredibly proud to be the Headteacher of the Heights Burnley."

Chief executive of EPT, Sharon Roscoe, added: "We are thrilled with the outcome of the first Ofsted inspection of the Heights Burnley and the glowing feedback in the report.

"I would like to congratulate the staff, pupils, parents/carers and governors on behalf of the EPT for this amazing achievement. 

"The staff work incredibly hard to provide the best educational experience for the pupils, raise aspirations and improve outcomes. This recognition is well deserved."