A school for young people with learning difficulties has won a national award for its its efforts in "breaking down" barriers between disabled and able-bodied people.

The Mabel Prichard School, in Littlemore, Oxford, has won the Schools Curriculum Award for learning within the community, following a series of projects aimed at forging links with other schools and organisations.

The award recognises the school's success in organising projects involving special needs children at the St Nicholas Road-based school, and mainstream schools and colleges.

It follows a series of science, art and music schemes which have brought together young people from Mabel Prichard and the local community. The school has also played host to students from other secondary schools, Oxford College of Further Education, and Oxford Brookes University, for work placements.

The award will be presented by the Duke of Gloucester to representatives of the school, at a ceremony in London's Tate Modern art gallery, next month.

To qualify for the award, the school had to submit a portfolio detailing pupils' involvement in the community, and underwent a rigorous two day inspection from external assessors. Headteacher Jane Wallington, said: "This award validates much of the excellent work done by the school in promoting citizenship, social inclusion, work-related learning and caring for others.

"The school is very much at the heart of the community, working alongside and with other people. It aims to break down barriers of disability, recognising the unique and valuable contribution each member of society can contribute.

"The school feels honoured to receive such a prestigious award. It recognises all the hard work each member of the staff and governor makes in bringing the children of Mabel Prichard School into the spotlight, and helping each child feel valued and appreciated for their individuality."

She added: "Just because the children have special needs, it doesn't mean they can't be part of the community. Our children have integrated into other schools, and children from other schools have come to ours, allowing them to have an appreciation of special needs, and promoting mutual respect."