A SPECIAL unit to help Bolton's schoolgirl mums complete their education has been praised by inspectors.

Ofsted found that girls at the Young Mums Unit did better at their lessons than at school and more often than not left with GCSEs under their belt.

Unit head Mrs Lorna MacIvor was strongly complimented for her high academic and personal expectations for the 14 to 16 year olds who are either pregnant or already have a child. Inspectors described her as an excellent, creative and imaginative leader who helped the girls develop their self-confidence.

Pupils who had problems at their previous school display excellent behaviour, improve their attendance, develop excellent attitudes to their work and make good progress.

Many pupils who are behind their classmates when they enter the Clarence Street unit catch up before they leave, despite the pressures of motherhood.

Last year, all pupils entered for their GCSEs passed at least three exams.

The unit concentrates on English, Maths and Childcare part-time, but inspectors found some mainstream schools were not always keeping their side of the deal to support and guide pupils in other subjects.

High quality childcare and guidance for the welfare of the girls and their babies was particularly strong.

But the council were told they could do more to support Mrs MacIvor, who is the only teacher and has to cope with few resources and lack of long-term planning.

The council say a newly set up management committee will draw up an action plan to address the weaknesses.

Inspectors said: "The unit aims to create a community for pupils to feel secure, happy and recognise the value of personal success.

"It promotes achievement, creativity, imagination and self-fulfilment and develops a sense of responsible parenthood."

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