A SECONDARY school has received a glowing report from Government inspectors.

St Francis Xavier School, in Richmond, was described by Ofsted chiefs as a good school with outstanding features.

Inspectors said after visiting the school at the end of March, that: "Standards of attainment, already above average, are improving and pupils' personal development is good, and in some respects outstanding."

Headteacher Dr Joseph McAuley said he was pleased with the report.

"The report highlights the school's high expectations of work and behaviour, resulting in pupils' good academic progress," he said.

"It recognises that this is set within a framework of mutual trust in a community which respects and values individuals."

Dr Jim Whiston, the chairman of the governors, said: "The inspectors' report clearly recognises the school's success.

"This is an exciting time for everyone connected with the school."

Inspectors made three main recommendations.

These were to improve the rate of academic progress in years ten and 11, improve consultation with pupils and provide them with better opportunities to take responsibility within school, and extend the opportunities for vocational study available to older pupils.

Dr McAuley said: "The three key recommendations specified by the Ofsted team are points which we had also identified and included within our current school development plan."