A SPECIAL needs school has been hailed as “outstanding” by Ofsted despite a “turbulent year” which saw large parts of the school closed due to the Raac saga.

Kingsdown School, in Snakes Lane, Eastwood, received the top rating in every inspection category following an inspection on October 8 and 9.

Inspectors found that Kingsdown School provides a highly supportive environment where pupils receive exceptional care and individual attention tailored to their needs.

This comes after Kingsdown School had been learning in temporary classrooms since September 2023 after 50 per cent of the building was forced to close because of Raac.

The school was left operating out of just ten classrooms and crucial facilities including the music room and catering spaces were shut.

The report, seen by the Echo, stated: “Kingsdown is an exceptional school. Pupils thrive and flourish here. They love school. They develop excellent communication and independence skills.

“The staff know the pupils incredibly well. They ensure that every pupil is making progress all the time.

“Parents and carers feel well supported by staff and know that their children are safe and well looked after.”

The school, which was previously rated as “good”, is part of the SEN Trust in Southend.

The report added: “The school is a close community. Pupils enthusiastically celebrate others’ successes in lessons and at celebration assembly.

“The school gives pupils high-quality opportunities, overcoming the challenges of disability.”

At the time of the inspection, there were 132 pupils at the school, all aged between 4 and 14.

Lisa Stroud, headteacher at Kingsdown School, said: “It is with immense pride, the Ofsted inspectors have recognised our school as exceptional, with their findings reflecting everything we strive to achieve for our remarkable pupils.

“The inspection team was particularly struck by how our pupils genuinely love coming to school, a place where they truly thrive and flourish. They noted that Kingsdown is a community where every single child is included in everything we do, regardless of any challenges they may face. This inclusive approach has always been at the heart of our ethos.

“Our children deserve nothing less than excellence, and we will continue to work tirelessly to provide this. I would like to thank our dedicated staff, our wonderful pupils, and you, our supportive parents, for contributing to this exceptional achievement.

“This recognition from Ofsted truly reflects the collaborative effort of our entire school community.”