A PENARTH school for children with learning difficulties has been recognised for its excellence.

Action for Children’s Headlands School in Penarth has received an award for excellence from Estyn.

Estyn, office of Her Majesty's Inspectorate for Education and Training in Wales, recognised Headlands School for their excellence in wellbeing and attitudes to learning; care support and guidance; and leadership and management.

Headlands Principal, Matt Burns, said: "We are so delighted we have been recognised by Estyn in this way as we empower young people to fulfil their potential and express themselves despite significant challenges. We hold relationships at the centre of all we do and as a result, pupils become ambitious and confident learners.

"We are constantly looking for creative ways to engage our pupils in a positive learning journey. We hold high expectations of ourselves and our students and what we can achieve together. I’m very proud of the staff and our fantastic pupils for gaining this special award."

Headlands School is an independent special school that offers day and residential placements for boys and girls aged 7 to 19 who have difficulty learning as a result of early trauma, complex emotional and social issues, Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC) and Asperger’s Syndrome.

Action for Children’s national director for Wales, Brigitte Gater, said: "It was a honour to receive the award with Matt as Headlands is a truly inspirational school.

"The way the staff and pupils come together to drive the school on is wonderful. It’s always a joy to visit the school as they are always innovating and making Headlands better and better.

"This award is richly deserved so I congratulate Matt and all the staff and pupils at the school."