A Harrow school’s high expectations have paid off after it won top rating from Ofsted in its latest inspection.

Harrow Council praised Shaftesbury High School for aiming high, after its third consecutive "outstanding" rating from the education watchdog.

The special needs school, in Headstone Lane, which teaches 165 pupils with a wide range of learning difficulties, was given the grade following an inspection in March.

Inspectors praised Shaftesbury's innovation and "culture of high expectations".

Paul Williams, head teacher, said: "Shaftesbury is very proud of its pupils’ outstanding achievements and that this has now been recognised for a third consecutive time by Ofsted.

"This is due to an outstanding team of committed staff, parents, carers, governors and Harrow's support services.

"I am very lucky to be the headteacher of such a school."

Staff and students have been celebrating the school’s success, and were paid a visit by Cllr Simon Brown, responsible for children and young people at the council.

He met pupils as well as staff and school governors, and Mr Williams showed him the school’s facilities.

Cllr Brown said: "Shaftesbury has long been an ‘Outstanding’ school but staff have not rested on their laurels.

"They continue to look for new ways to make sure all pupils achieve their potential.

"They should be congratulated, along with the pupils whose enthusiasm and determination are a credit to the school."

Shaftesbury is one of the schools in Harrow taking part in the council's school expansion programme.

Last year, a new extension was completed at the high school to house the sixth-form, along with an Autistic Resource Centre.

The inspector's report also noted that the school had maintained its high standards through the changes.

Praise was especially given to the school for its “strong team ethic” and high staff morale.