A HAMPSHIRE secondary school is celebrating what it describes as its best-ever report from independent inspectors.

The Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted) says The Burgate School and Sixth-Form in Fordingbridge has made major improvements since its previous inspection in 2017.

Leadership and management, behaviour and welfare and the sixth-form itself have all been rated "outstanding" by Ofsted.

Three other categories assessed by inspectors - quality of teaching, outcomes for pupils and overall effectiveness - have been rated "good".

Head teacher David Pover said: "I'm delighted that everyone involved in the school has been given the recognition that they richly deserve.

"When I consider the judgement we were given just over two years ago, the journey we have been on since then has been remarkable.

"In fact, looking back over reports since the early 1990s, I believe this to be the best Ofsted report the school has ever received.’

"The quality of teaching has improved since the previous inspection because we have raised expectations of the standards required.

"Published outcomes show a year-on-year improvement since 2016. In 2018, the overall Progress 8 score was well above the national average and placed us third in Hampshire.

"Our pupils’ conduct and approach to learning are exceptional and they relish the opportunities we provide."

The school's chair of trustees, Jenny Hair, added: "Everyone has worked tirelessly over the last two years to ensure every child at The Burgate receives the best educational experience possible. I am really pleased that this has been acknowledged by Ofsted."

Following the previous inspection the school was told to make improvements.

The latest Ofsted report says: "Leaders’ ambition and determination have brought about substantial improvement in all areas of the school. They have high expectations for the best teaching and learning experiences for all pupils.

“The school provides pupils with a holistic and well-rounded education, where academic success and personal development are equally valued.

“Leaders monitor and evaluate the impact of teaching on learning regularly. They are systematic in the support and challenge they provide and expect the best from teachers.”

“Students in the sixth form make strong progress and make a significant contribution to the school community.

"The school’s work to promote pupils’ personal development and welfare is outstanding. The tremendous sense that ‘every Burgate child matters’ permeates the school.

"The behaviour of pupils is outstanding.

"Pupils are polite, courteous and show respect for others’ ideas and views. They work hard in lessons and demonstrate very positive attitudes to their learning."

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