Inspectors have found a special needs school ‘outstanding’ in all areas, with pupils making “significant improvement” in speaking and listening.

The Ofsted report released today (March 9) meant Hatton School and Special Needs Centre, in Roding Lane South, Woodford Green, improved from its 'good’ score obtained in 2011.

Pupils, who have learning difficulties and some of whom are on the autistic spectrum, make “outstanding progress” at the school.

The report said: “While the attainment of pupils remains low because of their complex learning needs, their progress is exceptional from their starting points.

“Pupils make outstanding progress towards their individual targets, both academically and in personal development.

“They make significant improvement in their speaking and listening and in reading and mathematics skills.

“Over time, they learn how to be more independent, to express their choices and to communicate effectively with others.

“They are well prepared for the next stage in their education.”

The school, which takes pupils from 4 to 11-years-old, has 168 children on its books.

Headteacher Sue Blows said: “I am delighted with the inspection results and it just confirms what we already know.

“There is a fantastic team of staff who work here and they have all done an amazing job in getting this score.

“The Ofsted inspection picked up on the fact children make progress and get what they need to make the next step in life.

“This is what we are aiming for so we could not have asked for a better result.”