A special needs school in north Norfolk has been praised by the education watchdog for "empowering" its pupils.

Sheringham Woodfields School, which was purpose-built for children with complex learning and health needs, has been rated outstanding by Ofsted for the second time in a row.

Located on the outskirts of Sheringham, the school caters for 155 pupils with complex learning difficulties, with ages ranging from 3 to 19-years-old.  

Inspectors visited in May and described it as a place where the pupils "receive expert care and attention from highly skilled and kind staff".

READ MORE: Glowing Ofsted report for school where pupils 'achieve results they can be proud of'

"Staff see unique potential in every pupil. They design learning experiences to help pupils realise their potential in creative and joyful ways, for example applying mathematical knowledge in cookery lessons."

The report noted that pupils "learn the language of kindness and politeness", and that staff help pupils to use their own means of communication to experience friendship, take part in lessons and make decisions.

Since the last inspection, in 2019, the school population has grown and a new therapy centre has been added to the existing facilities.

Inspectors said the school has gone from "strength to strength" and that leaders have "embraced the changes".

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Headteacher Annette Maconochie said: "As in every school, our aim is to help our pupils achieve their educational potential in the most joyful way possible, and to equip them for life beyond the school gates.

"The report recognises that Sheringham Woodfields School does this very successfully.  The inspectors also praised the school's ethos of encouraging kindness and politeness, as well as acknowledging its academic achievements."

Steve Thurlow, chair of Sheringham Woodfields' governing body, said: "As well as being outstanding, the inspectors identified no areas needing improvement, so I am delighted that this latest Ofsted inspection has recognised the achievements for which everyone here strives so hard."