A learning centre for children unable to attend mainstream school has been rated good by Ofsted - after having previously required improvement.

The Attic, in Lovewell Road, was visited in September and inspectors found the provision was good in all areas.

The pupil referral unit is specifically organised to provide education for children who are excluded, sick, or otherwise unable to attend a mainstream or special maintained school.

Pupils ages can range from eight to 16, and the school is currently full, with 32 students.

The report said: 'Senior leaders are determined to provide every pupil with the best chance to develop the skills they need to be successful in adult life.'

It also said staff morale was high, and that the majority of Year 11 pupils continued into education, employment or training.

Judith Sherington, headteacher, said: 'It's absolutely fabulous for the school, we've come a long way.

'The staff are a fantastic team who work tirelessly to increase opportunities for the pupils. And the parents and students work well with the Attic and have developed good relationships with us.'

She said she was particularly proud of the observation that staff enjoyed working in the school and were enthusiastic, and that pupils had given good feedback too.

She added: 'I'm relatively new to Suffolk but the support from the local authority really has been absolutely amazing, and it's had a huge impact on our school.

'I'm really grateful for them and their support.'

Part of this support was noted by inspectors. The report said: 'Until recently the management committee has been unable to recruit members with the required skill and knowledge.

'With the support of the local authority, the school has successfully recruited committee members with an appropriate range of skills and background.'

To improve further inspectors said the school needed to develop the range of GCSE courses offered, move pupils onto the next activity quicker, and provide more difficult work.