A SPECIAL needs school in Fenland has been rated as “Outstanding” for the second time in a row by Oftsed inspectors.

Meadowgate School, in Wisbech, built on its strengths from two years ago to impress inspectors yet again who praised the quality of teaching, behaviour of pupils and the leadership of the head teacher Jackie McPherson.

Ofsted inspector Jeffery Plumb said the teaching at the school was outstanding with the pupils enthusiastically engaging with activities in lessons.

“All groups of pupils make outstanding progress in learning in lessons. A wide range of suitable teaching methods is used very effectively. Each pupil makes outstanding progress,” Mr Plumb said.

“Monitoring of teaching and learning is rigorous and feedback to teachers successfully enables them to improve their teaching.

“The head teacher’s vision that the needs of every child will be met and that each child will reach her or his full potential is embraced by all staff.

“The senior leadership team, led by the head teacher, promotes ambition and drive exceptionally well, which very successfully raises pupils’ achievement. Challenging targets are set for each pupil and they are almost always met.”

Jackie McPherson, who was praised for her leadership, said: “Although the school was already outstanding we have not stopped looking for ways to develop and improve. This report is a reflection of the hard work, imagination and drive of a fantastic whole school team.”

Meadowgate was told to improve the quality of teaching to accelerate pupils’ progress by using on-the-spot assessments in lessons.