A BRIGHOUSE school is celebrating after being judged “outstanding” by Ofsted.

William Henry Smith School works with seven to 19-year-olds with a broad spectrum of social, emotional and mental health challenges.

Following a visit by inspectors the school was judged outstanding, the top category, in all areas.

The newly released report says: “The Principal is uncompressing in her drive for ambition for all pupils to be the best they can be. The school is a safe, caring and welcoming place where pupils thrive and are successful.

"From typically low starting points, pupils make substantial progress in all aspects of their personal and academic development. The school prepares pupils well for the life they will lead after school.”

Sue Ackroyd, Principal, said: “This is a significant achievement for the school. There has been a focussed and relentless drive for excellence over the last few years, culminating in a whole school outstanding judgement.

"Our students begin to see that anything is possible, their confidence, self-esteem and belief goes from strength to strength with support from some superbly skilled professionals from across education, care, therapy and our support services team.

"To say I am proud is an understatement"