AN EAST Lancashire high school has received a glowing report from Government inspectors.

Ofsted said Witton Park High School, Blackburn, was a good school with many substantial strengths and a warm sense of community. "It offers good value for money," the inspectors added.

The teaching is good and the majority of pupils, including those with special educational needs, are making sound progress at both key stage three and key stage four. The overall GCSE performance is much better than in schools of a similar character. And the teaching of literacy in particular is a strength, they added.

Inspectors said pupils from a variety of cultures and backgrounds work together in easy harmony. They relate well to adults and happily take on responsibility.

Pupils behave well in and out of the classroom, are well disciplined, amenable to reason and show respect for property. Their attendance and punctuality is generally good.

Senior management is very effective and a considerable strength. As a result Witton Park has clear aims, improving academic achievement, strong pastoral systems and a buoyant, optimistic tone.

Inspectors felt the school's success is also the result of a team effort. Achievement for All, the school motto, is a reality, they said.

The school's governors are committed, concerned and well-organised and fulfil their responsibilities. The parents are pleased with the school's high expectations of their children's hard work and the level of achievement, the good progress they make and the high quality of teaching. Overall, the school is highly regarded by parents and the wider community.

Headteacher John Gosling, said: "I am absolutely delighted with the report and wish to thank everyone connected with the school for their support and hard work." He also congratulated the pupils for their efforts.

Chair of governors Jack Fairless, added: "I am particularly proud that the report recognised the striking personal commitment of all staff, both teaching and non-teaching, to the welfare and success of pupils."

Councillor Mahfooz Hussain, lead member for education with Blackburn with Darwen Council said: "I congratulate the school on what is an extremely positive report. It is down to hard work and the collaboration of a whole range of staff, officers, governors, pupils and parents."