Lakeside School has been rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted.

Situated in Chandlers Ford – the Social, Emotional, and Mental Health Difficulties (SEMH) school – was awarded outstanding by the educational body for the second consecutive time after an inspection over two days.

After evaluating the school as outstanding in achievement of pupils, quality of teaching, behaviour and safety of pupils, as well as leadership and management, the Ofsted inspection team noted: “Pupils often join Lakeside feeling deflated and with little hope for their further education.

“Step by step, the exceptional work of the talented staff team transforms pupils into confident, resilient, and educated young people.

“As a result, nearly all pupils leave Year 11 to go on to further education.”

They added: “Parents and carers are astonished by what the school does for them and their children.”

Reflecting on the school’s achievements, headteacher Gareth Evans, told the Echo: “Every day is a challenge but it’s incredibly rewarding.

READ MORE: Hounsdown School sewer pipe failure will take weeks to fix

Daily Echo: ‘It’s incredibly rewarding’: Lakeside School rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted

“We all work incredibly hard to make sure that we create the best possible environment for the students.

“To have maintained – if not bettered – our standards from our last inspection in 2017 means we’re where we need to be.”

The inspection took place in November 2023, with the report being published recently.

The headteacher added: “Our students travel to us from all over the county and even further afield.

“We have children who live in Southampton and Romsey, and others who travel from Gosport and Waterlooville.

"There are even two pupils who travel from as far away as the Isle of Wight, so we have a large catchment area, and we pride ourselves on that.”

Ninety-eight students attend Lakeside School in total, situated just off Junction 12 of the M3.

The school’s Ofsted report added: “Lifelong memories are created through the many valuable experiences provided.

“Pupils go on field trips and mental health walks, undertake food shopping, compete in sports matches and learn how to navigate public transport.

“Consequently, pupils get the support they need to be exceptionally well prepared for adulthood.”

“Nothing gives us more pride than when former students return as adults and are making their way in the world,” Mr Evans said.

“School should be a place where children can establish their dreams and hopefully go onto achieve them when they leave.”