A SPECIALIST school for boys with autism has received top marks from Ofsted for the third year running.

Following a full inspection in March this year, the regulator gave Swalcliffe Park School an 'Outstanding' rating.

The glowing report said the residential and day school outside Banbury offered 'significantly improved outcomes for children who need help, protection and care'.

Swalcliffe Park supports up to 41 boys aged 11 to 19 who have autistic spectrum disorder such as Asperger’s Syndrome.

Many of the youngsters also have additional needs arising from other diagnoses including ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia and language impairment.

In the report, inspectors said: "Young people’s emotional and psychological well-being improves significantly.

"Their self-awareness, self-esteem and confidence have improved and they have achieved far more than had been thought possible."

Ofsted found that students' educational attainment was markedly better than it had been previously after a period at Swalcliffe.

It also praised the rapport between staff and students, work experience offered to youngsters through its cafe and 'fix-it club', as well as trips and leisure activities.

The school offers seven boarding houses for the young people under its care.

Inspectors said: "Each boarding house has a warm and nurturing atmosphere and environment within which young people relax together and enjoy time with each other.

"When young people are approaching an age at which they will need to leave and live more independently, the staff provide them with good support."

Principal Kiran Hingorani said: "We are delighted to have received an ‘Outstanding’ rating from Ofsted for Care. To receive this rating consecutively over the last 3 years takes hard work and a firm commitment to delivering the very best for our students… something we continuously strive to deliver.”