Bristol Free School is celebrating a highly successful Ofsted inspection.
The secondary school in Concorde Drive, which serves Westbury and Henleaze, was judged to be Strong in six out of seven areas.
Few schools have achieved such a high rating since the watchdog introduced a new and tougher inspection framework last November.
The Ofsted report said: “This is a highly ambitious and inclusive school. Pupils thrive here. Many pupils describe the strong sense of community and say that they feel proud to attend the school. Pupils feel safe, known and valued.”
A team of five inspectors visited the 1,292 school for students aged 11 to 18 in March.
They rated the school as Strong for achievement, attendance and behaviour, inclusion, leadership and governance, personal development and wellbeing, and post-16 provision. Curriculum and teaching was judged to meet the Expected standard and safeguarding standards were met.
Ofsted praised the school’s academic performance, culture and inclusive ethos, noting that “many pupils achieve highly, including those who are disadvantaged, and many make excellent progress from their starting points” and that outcomes have been “positive and sustained over a number of years”.
They noted that pupils behaved exceptionally well.
Ofsted also highlighted the “impressive” efforts to support pupils’ character and wider development, with a huge variety of clubs and opportunities on offer.
Headteacher Susan King said: “We are delighted Ofsted has recognised the ambition, care and professionalism that define Bristol Free School. This outcome is a testament to our staff, students and families, and to the supportive challenge of our governors and trust.”
Chair of governors Anne-Marie Boyle said: “This report is a tribute to the hard work of Mrs King and our school leaders, students and staff, and to the partnership with parents and carers. We are excited about the future and remain committed to building on these strengths for every child at BFS.”