A SPECIAL school that education bosses planned to close has been praised by Government inspectors as "a good school with many strengths".

The headteacher of Crosshill Special School said that the glowing Ofsted report made all the efforts of campaigners to save the school worthwhile.

Following a visit to the Shadsworth Road school on November 1, Ofsted inspectors praised its outstanding teaching, curriculum and care and support for its students, who have a range of moderate learning difficulties.

The report said: "Crosshill very successfully promotes inclusive practice for students who experience difficulties with learning and behaviour."

Particular praise is given to teaching, thanks to "excellent relationships and high levels of expertise".

Inspectors said: "Teachers and teaching assistants work side by side in teams and their energy and enthusiasm for their work is infectious."

The school's 75 students are motivated by the teaching, and the "rich and exciting curriculum which captures students' interests", which translates into good academic progress.

"Many of the year 11 students who left in the summer achieved extremely good results in their GCSE and entry level courses given their starting points on entry to the school," the report added.

Blackburn with Darwen Council initially proposed to close Crosshill under its Building Schools for the Future scheme.

Staff, parents and the wider community fought a passionate five-month campaign against the plan, and the council has now proposed to co-locate the school with Blakewater College on a new East Blackburn Community College site.

Headteacher Mike Hatch said: "I'm delighted for the staff that we got such a good report, as I am for all those people who supported the school during the campaign to keep us open, giving their time and effort.

"This report makes their efforts worthwhile, although the quality of provision was never in question by the authority, it was an issue of numbers.

"I'm really pleased for the staff who have worked so hard in what has not been an easy time for them."

Senior teacher and campaign leader Peter Rush said: "We are really pleased, because the areas in which the school has been deemed outstanding', are the things most important to us - relationships with students, and teaching and learning."

The report recommended that the school develop a coherent approach with key priorities to future school improvement.