A HAMPTON school for children with learning difficulties has received a glowing report from inspectors.

Clarendon School on Hanworth Road, which teaches 96 pupils, is described as a good school with very good features' in its latest Ofsted report.

This was the first inspection since the school became responsible for managing the Oldfield House Unit, which looks after five pupils with behavioural difficulties. It is described as very effective' in its work.

Headteacher Ann Coward was particularly proud that the quality of teaching and learning was judged so highly. She said: "After all, that's why we are here. I'm very pleased that the contribution of the whole team has been recognised in such a public way.

"The school's inclusive ethos and its links with parents, other schools and the local community were also drawn out for praise. In particular, the support provided to parents by the school's family support worker was considered to be an example of outstanding practice.

"The work of the unit was judged to be very good. The high quality work undertaken with pupils from mainstream primary schools who attend on a part-time basis was singled out for praise."

Rug Latimer, chairman of governors added: "The school goes from strength to strength. We now have a clear agenda for our next stage of development."

Cllr Geoffrey Samuel, cabinet member for schools on Richmond council, said: "I am delighted at this result; it is yet another excellent Ofsted result for a school in our borough."

Lib Dem education spokesman Cllr Bob King said: "I am delighted to add my congratulations. The inclusivity of the school and the quality of it's teaching and learning have been justly highlighted."