A HAMPSHIRE school has been given the top score by Ofsted inspectors – and has won a national award.

Hounsdown School is now rated ‘outstanding’ in all four of the inspection categories, as well as being ranked in the top 20 per cent of all national schools for students’ attainment and progress.

Students’ progress in maths put the school in the top ten per cent nationally and first in Hampshire state schools.

Commenting on the school, inspectors said: “Excellent relationships between teachers and pupils mean all pupils achieve very well and make excellent progress from their starting points.

“This is especially the case in English, mathematics and science.”

They described the school as “caring and inclusive”, adding: “The level of care and nurturing in the school is a real strength.”

Julie Turvey, executive headteacher, said: “We are absolutely delighted with our ‘outstanding’ Ofsted judgement and so proud of the achievements and the work ethic of our students.

“The students and staff deserve all of the credit that they received in our final Ofsted report.

“It was very pleasing for inspectors to comment upon teaching. The learning and assessment within the school is of a high quality with much being outstanding and students are keen to excel and be ambitious for their futures.

“We are obviously thrilled with our report and the judgement made; however, we are not complacent and will continue to improve, as we live by the mantra, ‘Getting better never stops’.”

The school has also been recognised for its exceptional 2016 performance by the national Schools, Students and Teachers network (SSAT). It was placed in the top 20 per cent of non-selective schools nationally for attainment and progress.

Head boy Matt Murphy and head girl Talia Atherton said they were “so proud” of the inspection.