CHILDREN and staff at a Worcestershire school are celebrating a good start to the autumn with an outstanding report.

Headteacher Stephen Jowett, of the Chantry High School, Martley, near Worcester, says they are thrilled to have received an overall outstanding grade by government inspectors. Mr Jowett thanked all staff and pupils for their hard work in getting the good Ofsted report, which also gave an outstanding mark in nearly every individual category, ranging from teaching to school management.

He said: “The report is a massive boost for the school and its community and reflects the hard work and dedication of all our staff and students. We are especially pleased that the inspector commented on how impressed he was with student confidence and their ability to express how much they enjoy school, feel safe and happy.

“The summer saw the completion of our new library and learning centre and another set of excellent GCSE results. The Ofsted report adds to the good news. “Our school can rightly look forward to further achievements in future.”

The report, made by Ofsted inspector Clive Kempton, describes how the school had “improved significantly” since its last inspection, and was “held in high regard by the local community.”

Giving the reasons for this improvement, Mr Kempton said: “The new headteacher appointed two years ago has been an inspiration to staff, parents and students,” and added how he had “successfully focused the staff on raising standards and improving provision and is always looking to improve the school”.

Mr Kempton also praised the work done to gain stable staff, giving children consistent teaching, and the “impeccable” behaviour of children in lessons. In a letter to the students, Mr Kempton said they and their parents should be very proud to say they go to the Chantry.