A special needs school has been rated “good” by Ofsted for a second time running.

Rivermead School in Gillingham received a glowing report from the education watchdog with pupils and staff both receiving praise.

The secondary school, based in Forge Lane and run as part of the Rivermead Inclusive Trust, has 180 pupils on its roster.

It is primarily aimed at students aged between 11 and 16 with a diagnosis of autism and associated difficulties.

The academy was last inspected in July 2018 when it was also judged to be ‘Good’.

Following the latest round of inspections, which took place in February and saw inspectors meet with school leaders, teachers and pupils, it has been rated “Good” once again.

According to the education watchdog, pupils are well prepared “for a bright and happy future because dedicated staff pay meticulous attention to meeting each individual’s needs”.

A curriculum to suit the varying needs of students is overseen by an expert team.

The report states: “Pupils proudly wear bright pin badges to show how many points they have e earned for showing ‘SUPERstar” behaviours, such as resilience.

“Pupils learn to speak with confidence. They are keen to greet visitors to school with a warm smile or a friendly handshake,”

Teachers prepare youngsters for adulthood by encouraging “ambitious destinations or employment when they leave school”.

Detailed support plans set out the help that pupils need in order to learn well.

Staff use these plans, alongside their own subject expertise, to design lessons that help pupils secure their understanding of what they are learning

The school operates across three sites and has strong links with MidKent College with which it has a sixth form partnership.

In the sixth form, staff regularly check that students learn a curriculum that best suits their needs and ambitions.

Commenting on the report, head teacher Mark Burgiss said Rivermead had made excellent progress since the last inspection.

He said: “Being part of a staff team that exhibits such a culture of care for all learners, and that works so hard to meet all individual needs, is an absolute privilege.

“We will continue to work hard to improve Rivermead school, giving our learners the best opportunities for the future

Tina Lovey, chief executive of the Rivermead Inclusive Trust, said: “Rivermead School is a fantastic example of inclusivity.

“Our learners are given every opportunity to improve their life choices and life chances and the nurturing, caring nature of the compassionate staff ensure that no learner falls through the net.

“The senior leaders and governors work hard to embed the values and ethos of the school and are a testament to the exceptional holistic care that is provided on a day-to-day basis. ”