STAFF and students at a Northwich residential school are celebrating after it was rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted.

Greenbank School, in Greenbank Lane, was given top marks in overall effectiveness, achievements of pupils, quality of teaching, behaviour and safety of pupils and leadership and management.

The overall effectiveness of the residential experience was rated as good.
The school provides day and residential education for children aged between 11 and 18, with learning difficulties.

The report by inspectors, who assessed the school over two days, praises the school for the care children receive, the opportunities they are given and the quality of staff.

It states: “Greenbank is a remarkably happy school where students feel extremely well cared for and supported in a calm and purposeful environment.

“The quality of teaching it outstanding. The headteacher and his leadership team have very high expectations and a ‘go for it’ approach which is shared by all staff.

“The sixth form is outstanding and has continued to grow and develop since the previous inspection.

“There are increased opportunities for students to achieve external awards which match their ability and prepare them extremely well for their future lives.”

The school’s provision and management of residential care was only judged as good, rather than outstanding, as recent staff changes at the time of the inspection meant that a few care staff had not yet obtained a qualification at an appropriate level.”

Headteacher Mike McCann said: “School and the governing body are delighted at the judgement, which endorses the work we do with the students, not only by meeting the aspirational targets that have been set for the students, but also the effort and hard work that goes into developing the social, emotional aspects of a student’s character, their communication skills, self-esteem and teamwork.

“This is done in partnership with parents, speech and language, residential provision and St Nicholas High School, where a number of students across GCSEs.

“Great news for pupils, staff, parents and the community we serve.”

Children were treated to a visit from Cheshire Falconry Centre to celebrate the outstanding report.