SKILLED staff at a 'family-focused' special education school in Cirencester have been praised in a recent Ofsted report. 

Paternoster School - which is situated in Watermoor Road, Cirencester - received Good ratings in all areas after a visit from an Ofsted inspector on Wednesday, October 18 and Thursday, October 19.

In the report, the inspector described the school as 'a big family' where pupils 'feel safe and are well cared for'.

In addition, they praised 'skilled' staff who have 'high expectations and ensure that learning is meaningful and fun'.

The school received an Inadequate rating five years ago but this is its first Ofsted report since joining the SAND Academies Trust and the inspector commented on significant improvements.

They said: "The trust and the school work together determinedly to improve this family-focused school.

"For example, they have rightly focused on ensuring that the curriculum is designed to meet the wide range of needs of the pupils."

However, the inspector said it was too soon to see the impact of recent changes to behaviour policy and careers advice packages.

Headteacher Jennie Laird said: "Being a special school, we pride ourselves on supporting individuals regardless of need and ensuring they become the most successful young people they can be. 

"We feel that the Ofsted report reflects the hard work and dedication over the last five years to move the school forward following an Inadequate rating. 

"This inspection has affirmed the quality of education provided at Paternoster School, and our commitment to fostering a positive learning environment that nurtures the academic, social and emotional development of our students."

Martin Hughes, chief executive of SAND Academies Trust, said: "I couldn’t be prouder of the school and how fantastic to have such a forward thinking school in Cirencester for the pupils and parents.”  

However, in order to improve, the school was advised to strengthen the consistency of its curriculum implementation.

The report stated: "Elements of curriculum implementation need more time to embed. 

"For example, staff do not consistently apply the approaches the school has adopted to teach some subjects which can impede pupils’ learning.

"The school should build on and strengthen the consistency of the implementation of the curriculum so that pupils learn well in all areas."

To view the full report visit tinyurl.com/yc8rrx8a