A specialist school in Oswaldtwistle is celebrating after being marked outstanding in an education inspection.

White Ash School, on Thwaites Road, was rated outstanding in all Ofsted inspection areas, including behaviour and safety of pupils, leadership and management and quality of teaching.

In his report, lead inspector John Ashley said: “The headteacher and her team, overseen by extremely well-informed governors, provide exceptional drive and support to ensure that all staff teams work to common ends.

“The behaviour of pupils is outstanding. Pupils of all ages have a real thirst for learning.”

Headteacher Philippa Conti said: “We are all absolutely delighted. It’s been a real team effort with all the children, members of staff and parents, governors and other professionals that work here. This has come a year after we changed to a general learning difficulties primary school.

“Our last inspection was good and we were really determined to get an outstanding rating and we have so we’re really pleased.” The school provides education for 84 pupils aged two-11 years who have a range of disabilities and special educational needs.