The primary school, in Tadpole Lane, has been awarded an overall grade of ‘good’ in its latest Ofsted inspection, which is a grade higher than the ‘satisfactory’ they were given in 2010. The report said the school had made significant improvements since its last inspection, and also said the behaviour and safety of pupils at the school was ‘outstanding’.

Alison Paul, headteacher since 2009, said: “We were absolutely ecstatic to have gone up a grade, particularly under the new framework. It is a very significant improvement.

“The staff have been fantastic and worked so hard. They are the people who need to be praised for this. We want to thank the parents for standing by us and supporting us too.

“The pupils seem to really enjoy coming to school. We knew we were doing lots of things right, but it is nice to have it confirmed by Ofsted.”

Brimble Hill School is a primary-aged special school for pupils with severe and complex learning needs. All pupils have a statement of special educational needs.

Mrs Paul said the school would act on advice from the inspectors to use sign language more often.

The school scored ‘good’ grades for achievement of pupils, quality of teaching and leadership and management. Behaviour and safety of pupils was judged ‘outstanding’.

In the report, inspectors said: “The school has made significant improvements since the last inspection.

“Pupils make better than expected progress, usually from very low starting points, because they receive good teaching which is lively, captures their attention and makes their learning interesting.

“The school provides outstanding opportunities for pupils to attend mainstream classes and for pupils from the nearby primary school to attend the special school.

“Pupils are provided with a wide and interesting range of physical education opportunities that all pupils can take part in regardless of disability. The leadership and management, including governance, of the school are good.

“The headteacher has made good use of external support and advice to provide impetus and rigour, which have been valuable in making good improvements to the work of the school."