ASCHOOL in Renfrewshire for children with learning difficulties has been given an outstanding report by inspectors.

Clippens School in Linwood, which caters for 60 pupils with additional support needs, has been awarded the best rating of any Scottish school this year.

Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Education (HMIE) gave the school 10 "excellent" ratings and six "very goods".

The inspectors praised the quality of leadership, the partnership with parents, the strong culture of achievement and creative teaching approaches.

Inspectors found that Clippens School offered an "excellent educational experience" for its pupils within an inclusive learning environment.

"The school provided a consistently high quality of teaching and support for pupils who were making very good progress within a stimulating and challenging curriculum, " the report said.

Olwynne Clark, the headteacher, was described as "an inspirational leader, highly respected by parents, staff and the wider community".

Mrs Clark said yesterday: "Clippens School is about working together, staff and parents, trying to find ways to help our children learn and improve the quality of their life for now and for the future."

"The staff of the school were delighted to receive such an excellent report. It highlights a significant number of strengths including partnerships with parents and teamwork across the school.

"This report would not be possible without the ongoing hard work, creativity and support of the staff, parents and friends of the school.

John Rooney, Renfrewshire Council's director of education, added: "This is quite clearly an outstanding report.

"It endorses, in a very public way, the excellent work of the school.

"I am very pleased that the very fine work of the headteacher and her staff has been praised and recognised.

"The school can look forward to the future with much pride and confidence."