STEPPING Stones special needs school is celebrating a ‘good’ Ofsted rising to ‘outstanding’ for sixth-form provision and personal development.

The Hindhead-based school now operates from two sites, after opening its post-16 provision in Undershaw in 2017, the restored and extended former home of Sherlock Holmes author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

Ofsted inspectors rated the school good overall and also good for leadership, quality of teaching and outcomes for pupils.

They reported: “Sixth-form provision is outstanding. Students are exceptionally well prepared for their next stage of education or employment.

“Over time, pupils make great gains in their personal development, behaviour and self-esteem. They are highly appreciative of what the school does for them. The school has a strong family atmosphere in which pupils thrive.”

Headteacher Melissa Grigsby said: “I would like to thank not only the two charities, DFN Foundation and COINS Foundation, for their support and drive for the school, but also the local community who have supported the school to flourish, especially the post-16 provision that is our exit pathway for these complex learners, as they join the mainstream world of work or further education.

“During the inspection, our parents talked about the transformational effect the school has had on their children’s lives. The layered and bespoke approach for young people at Stepping Stones can be achieved only by the hard work and commitment of the leaders, staff and families, as well as the young people themselves who are so very driven and aspirational.

“I am very proud of Stepping Stones and I move on from here with the knowledge this excellent work will continue.”