A COUPLE of specialist schools in Redditch have been given the thumbs up by education chiefs.

Ofsted inspectors rated the Pupil Referral Units (PRU) at Holyoakes Field First and Ipsley Middle Schools as ''good'' during recent inspections.

PRUs play a vital role in ensuring permanently excluded pupils and those with extreme vulnerabilities can still get a quality education.

Inspectors visiting Holyoakes Field in Batchley said the department was well led by a skilled and dedicated teacher. They added staff were enthusiastic and ensured all pupils receive a good quality education.

But they also said teachers needed to ensure lesson criteria was clearer and that they were challenging students enough.

Meanwhile, chiefs visiting Ipsley in Winyates Way said the unit had good leadership and management who had made big improvements since the last inspection. They added the unit was dealing particularly well with personal, social and emotional issues of pupil that make it difficult for them to always behave appropriately.

Inspectors did, however, say the school's management committee should monitor the effectiveness of the provision and the process for the referral of pupils and monitor and record pupils' individual progress.

Worcestershire County Council's director of children's services, Richard Hubbard, said: "Teaching in a Pupil Referral Unit is a challenging job. I am absolutely delighted Ofsted has formally recognised the hard work, skill and expertise of teachers at both Holyoakes Field and Ipsley.

''These professionals are measurably improving the life chances of troubled youngsters.''