PUPILS and staff at a Ripon school are celebrating after being rated outstanding Ofsted report.

Outwood Academy Ripon has achieved the highest grades possible in all categories and the outstanding rating tops its previous rating of good in its 2012 inspection.

Sir Michael Wilkins, academy principal and chief executive of Outwood Grange Academies Trust, said: “I am truly astounded by the hard work and commitment of students, staff and governors.”

He said the outstanding Ofsted grading was “thoroughly deserved and reflective of the amazing achievement of this school”, and praised the outstanding leadership of Rob Tarn, regional chief executive; Angela Sweeten, former principal; and Steve Merifield, the current principal at the academy.

Ofsted inspectors hailed the “outstanding progress” and “exceptional outcomes” of students, underpinned by “outstanding teaching typified by high expectations.”

The report added: “The vision and enterprise of the chief executive and the outstanding drive of the academy leaders have resulted in rapid and sustained improvement and high achievement.”

Mr Merifield said: “There are more than 3,000 secondary schools in the country which demonstrates how remarkable this achievement is.

“I am extremely proud of all of our students, staff, council members and wider community who have all supported our progression.”

Andrew Wappat, executive principal, added: “For disadvantaged students the school has performed very well - it is in the top ten in the country.

“It is also the joint top performing school in North Yorkshire so we are very proud.”

Outwood Academy Ripon is one of the first schools nationwide to achieve the top grade in all four categories under new Ofsted guidelines.

Annette Beckwith, chairman of Outwood Academy Council, said: “This is an unquestionable endorsement of the quality of education provided at Outwood Academy Ripon, one which the community of Ripon and surrounding area can be proud.”