A specialist school has been highest possible grading by Ofsted for 4 times in a a row.

Cambian Whinfell School on Windermere Road, Kendal, caters for educational and residential needs for boys and young men aged between 11 and 19 years old, and was again given an 'outstanding' rating by Ofsted.

School Principal Paddy Sandham spoke of her pride at the findings of the latest report and how the determination, effort and dedication of all members of staff has been recognised within it:

"Whinfell School has the most amazing staff team, who put the students at the heart of everything they do.

Education is a journey and we will continue to provide a route that is highly aspirational with an evolving, creative and considered curriculum, ensuring our students get to their destination of choice."

The report, which offers no further recommendations of improvement from Ofsted, comments on the positive difference Whinfell School makes to the lives of its students and its work in the promotion of personal development:

"Pupils’ education and welfare provision at Whinfell School makes a significantly positive difference to their lives.

"Pupils achieve well after previous, negative experiences of education.

"Many pupils improve their attendance dramatically once they join the school.

"They develop trusting relationships with staff. Pupils engage successfully in their education due to the strength of these relationships."

"Pupils are happy and safe. They show high levels of respect and kindness towards adults and each other. Leaders’ and staff’s expertise mean that pupils’ behaviour is exceptionally well supported.

"Parents who spoke to the inspector commented that the support their children receive has 'changed their lives and given them hope.'"

"The work to promote pupils’ personal development is exemplary.

"A focus on well-being is fundamental to the school’s work. Staff have great success in developing pupils’ character. They successfully raise pupils’ aspirations. Staff also develop the way pupils think about others. In this way, pupils respect and celebrate the differences in others."

The Cambian Whinfell School website states: "Students often arrive after difficult education and domestic experiences and are potentially lacking of confidence.

"Whinfell School aims to educate students academically, socially and emotionally, putting them in good stead moving forwards."