Staff and pupils at Attleborough Academy are celebrating thanks to a 'good' rating from Ofsted – which comes three years after its last rating of 'Requires Improvement'.

The result is the first education watchdog evaluation since the school became an academy in March 2014, taking over from the former Attleborough High School.

Neil McShane, principal, said: 'I am delighted that Ofsted have recognised not only our strong improvements in exam results, but also the caring and supportive ethos we have instilled throughout our school community.

'Attleborough Academy Norfolk is a school where we seek to educate the whole child, nurturing our students to become well-prepared citizens who are respectful and tolerant, as well as successful individuals.'

Ofsted's report noted teaching at the school: 'is consistently good, including in the sixth form, with some that is outstanding,' and said a 'purposeful learning environment' had been created by its leadership team.

The report said: 'Staff and pupils are clear on the high standards that he [Mr McShane] expects.

'The school is a calm, orderly and welcoming place.'

Mr McShane added: 'This report provides a fair assessment of where we are currently, which is 'Good' with a number of exemplary features, providing confirmation that we are well on the way towards becoming outstanding.'

The report also states that: 'Many pupils commented to inspectors about the school's emphasis on equality, tolerance, respect and kindness to others.

'Attleborough pupils are very well prepared to be citizens of modern Britain.'