PUPILS at a school for children with emotional and social difficulties have spoken of how it has changed their lives, after praise from inspectors.

They said Woodeaton Manor School, two miles outside Oxford, played a key role in their development.

Ofsted inspectors said the school left its 52 pupils “well prepared for life” and raised its overall rating from good to outstanding.

Many of the school’s pupils are autistic, suffer dyslexia, or are in care. Most leave with several GCSEs, allowing them to compete with pupils from mainstream schools in the jobs market.

Pupil Bradley Lewis, 13, from Headington, said the school gave pupils another chance.

He said: “It is easier to learn here. It is much more relaxed and there are less pupils in the class.

“The school gives us lots of choices in life.”

Alex Waltham, 15, from Carterton said: “I used to get very angry quite a bit, but the school has really helped.

“I cannot describe what they have done. It just sort of happens.

“I have not been to a better school”.

And 16-year-old Jane Bartlett, from Botley, added: “Since I came here, I have improved my confidence and been helped through my exams.

“The best thing about it is the staff and what they do for us. We are like a big family here.”

Ofsted inspector Sarah Mascall praised the “excellent leadership” and staff commitment.

She said: “Students are overwhelming in their support of the school and talk very positively about the impact it has had on their lives.”

Headteacher Anne Pearce said the Ofsted report was a “massive trophy” for those with mental health issues.

She said: “It shows that it does not mean they will not be successful.

“We hope that potential employers take note.”