A GOVERNMENT minister who visited a Bromsgrove special school left impressed with the work carried out for children with learning difficulties.

School standards minister Jacqui Smith paid a visit to Rigby Hall Special School, in Rigby Lane, after an invitation from the chairman of the school governors, Andrew Newman.

Mr Newman had been concerned that the Government's intention to bring more children into mainstream education would put the role of special schools at risk.

But during the Redditch MP's visit, she said she was impressed with the way pupils joined classes at North and South Bromsgrove High Schools whenever possible, and with the support available to them.

Headteacher Pam Griffiths said: "She was very impressed and we agreed it's not an all or nothing situation.

"Some students can cope with mainstream lessons in some subjects but it's what is best for the pupil that is important."