AN independent school has been praised in a recent inspection.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate has described Barnard Castle School as having many strengths and no major weaknesses.

Ten inspectors visited the school in March. They sat in on 135 lessons, and questioned parents, staff and pupils.

The inspectors drew attention to the excellent pastoral care, the high quality and committed teaching and non-teaching staff, the respect between pupils and staff and the wide range of sporting and non-sporting activities.

Pupil progress, the quality curriculum, pupil learning and behaviour, careers advice, links with parents and the community and the management of the school and the leadership of the governors were praised.

The inspectors said: "Barnard Castle School is a happy, relaxed and purposeful community where pupils achieve good academic standards.

"The school has many strengths. No major weaknesses exist."

Headteacher David Ewart said he was delighted.

He said: "As an inspector myself, I know that good really does mean good and the report highlights many areas that are excellent.

"The report is official confirmation of what I feel we offer at Barnard Castle School - the very high standards of care, development and education in a relaxed and happy setting."

The inspectors identified some areas for further development, which the school has already incorporated into its strategic plan.

These include developing computer technology to support pupils' learning and teachers' work, and using pupil assessments to guide curriculum planning.

The report comes after Barnard Castle Preparatory School was also praised in an inspection.