A ROSSENDALE school branded as "failing" three years ago, has won through with flying colours.

Cribden House special boys' school, Rawtenstall, was placed in special measures after it was judged to be failing to give pupils an acceptable standard of education.

Now after four separate visits by inspectors, Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Schools has lifted the ruling because acceptable standards have been achieved.

The special report on the 17-pupil primary school for pupils with emotional and behaviour difficulties, says that in many lessons it is exemplary.

Teachers' subject knowledge is sound and realistic challenges are set for pupils of whom there are high and achievable expectations.

The headmaster, Mr D. Norton, gives strong and effective leadership which has stabilised the school and established criteria to ensure continued improvement.

The inspectors say that despite absence and changes among staff, the staff team were working in co-operation and morale was good.

The governors, headed by County Councillor Hazel Harding, had given consistently good support throughout the period of special measures.

There is also a pat on the back for Lancashire Education Authority which, says the report, acted swiftly and decisively to support the school following the difficulties.

The report adds that Lancashire education authority is planning to develop the school as a day school for up to 50 primary children and discontinue the present residential arrangements.

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