A special educational needs school has been rated outstanding in all areas by Ofsted.

Pupils at Laleham Gap School in Ramsgate feel understood, well cared for and supported, inspectors said.

The establishment, in Newington, was previously given a ‘good’ rating in 2017, and teaches 217 students, aged 4 to 18, who have autism, speech, language and communication needs.

In a report published last week, inspectors, who visited in April, said: “The school’s motto, ‘learn, grow, succeed’, is built into the fabric of the school.

“The relationships staff develop with pupils are very special.

“Staff take time to get to know pupils on an individual level.

“As a result, pupils feel understood, well cared for and well supported.

The centre in Ozengell Place was also praised for its “well established routines” which “helps to reduce pupils’ anxieties”.

A morning check in with staff was noted as effective, and helps ensure a “smooth” learning experience for youngsters.

The report continued, “While Laleham Gap is a relatively large special school, it has a ‘family feel’ that helps pupils to feel secure.

‘pupils feel understood, well cared for and well supported...’

“Many children have had negative educational experiences before coming here – this school offers them a fresh start.

“Highly trained staff develop a detailed understanding of pupils’ individual needs, talents, interests and academic strengths.”

Laleham Gap was also applauded for helping different schools in the area improve - particularly mainstream establishments - while still being “keen to learn from others”.

Students have an “abundance” of clubs and activities to choose from, and a well thought-out career programme, which “ensures that pupils have suitable advice about the different future options available.”

“The learning for life curriculum is successful in teaching pupils about important topics such as religion, equality, diversity and relationships,” the report added.

‘This school offers them a fresh start...’

The inspectors concluded by commending Laleham Gap’s safeguarding provision, stating: “Rigorous recruitment processes ensure that leaders recruit suitable teachers.

“Leaders and staff are trained well in safeguarding.

“This helps them to know how to spot behaviours that may indicate a concern about a child.

“They teach pupils how to keep themselves safe, including online.”

The school was rated outstanding in quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, early years provision and sixth-form provision.