A college has received an A* report card after its first Ofsted inspection in more than a decade.

Celebrations are underway at Midhurst Rother College after it retained its ‘Outstanding’ status following an Ofsted visit last month.

Praising the “exceptional education” being provided to students, Ofsted inspectors judged the school to be ‘Outstanding’ in all areas. The report stated that students at the school achieve “impressive academic success” and that staff strive for the “best in everyone” and set “high academic ambitions”. Teaching is “consistently high-quality” and “carefully planned”, while students’ “impeccable behaviour” ensures a calm learning environment for all.

Students with special education needs and/or disabilities are also supported to access “the same broad offer as their peers” and “achieve very well in a wide range of subjects”, ensuring they are “fully prepared for the next stage of their education, employment, or training”.

Stuart Edwards, principal at Midhurst Rother College, said: “This report is a wonderful testament to our students and staff who make Midhurst Rother College an exceptional school community. I am always incredibly proud of our students. It is a privilege to work with and for them. I would like to thank our students for their kindness, the respect they show each other, their hard work, and for being a constant source of energy, optimism, and fun.

“This outcome is also a credit to our excellent team of staff who work so hard. Thank you to them and to our wider school community for their ongoing support.”