STUDENTS at St Wilfrid's CE High School and Technology College in Blackburn are proud to be part of a "harmonious school community", according to Government inspectors.

Ofsted has rated the Duckworth Street school as "good with outstanding features".

Following an inspection last month, inspectors describe St Wilfrid's as a place where "staff and students feel valued", which translates to high levels of achievement in all areas assessed.

Students with learning difficulties and disabilities are "particularly well cared for".

Their report said: "The excellent care is reflected in the respectful and friendly relationships which exist between teachers, support staff and students.

"This results in a harmonious school community where students are confident and can achieve."

The care and support received by pupils mean their personal development and well-being are deemed "outstanding", and their academic performance is also high - last year the proportion of key stage three students achieving the expected standard of level five, was 96 per cent in English, 94 per cent in maths and 93 per cent in science.

At GCSE levels, 71 per cent of students achieved five or more A* to C grades at GCSE including English and maths.

They are also "very well supported for the world of work" through an excellent personal, social, careers and health education programme.

"Outstanding features" were found in the management of the school, led by headteacher David Whyte and his senior team, "who provide a clear vision focused on enabling all students to achieve their full potential and a relentless drive for self improvement".

Mr Whyte said: "Everyone is proud of the improvements that have been made since our last inspection. We were all pleased that the rigorous system we have put in place relating to self evaluation and our relentless drive for self improvement have been recognised as outstanding.

"These approaches reflect our vision for personalisation to enable all students to reach their full potential through a curriculum which meets their individual needs.

"Being in the top 100 most improved schools for five A*-C grades including English and maths last year reflects fully the progress we are making."