THE QUALITY of learning, pupils’ behaviour and the range of extra-curricular activities have all been praised in a largely positive Ofsted report for Marling School.

Inspectors awarded the all-boys grammar school the second highest overall rating of ‘good’ following their visit in early December.

First to be commended is the school’s marked improvement since its last inspection in 2007.

"Students develop into confident and articulate young people as a result of the many and varied opportunities provided within the curriculum," the report notes.

"The school provides a broad and challenging curriculum which enables students to learn and develop as people, assisted by good care, guidance and support.

"Students' behaviour is exemplary and instances of bullying and racism are remarkably few."

The school’s recent period of unrest following the dismissal of former headteacher Roger Lock in 2009 is also noted by the inspectors, who go on to praise the leadership of new head Dr Stuart Wilson.

"He has succeeded in communicating a clear and unequivocal vision for the continued improvement of the school and he enjoys the support of a committed leadership team in making this happen."

Students’ attainment rates being well above national averages in both GCSEs and A-levels are also commended, as is the progress of pupils with special needs or disabilities.

More praise is given for the popularity of the sixth form, and the high percentage of students who gain entry to their first choice universities but the variation in achievement between subjects is noted as an area of concern.

Teachers have also been told to ensure more able pupils are challenged accordingly in class.

Dr Wilson said: "We are delighted with the report.

"It acknowledges the wide range of opportunities we offer students to allow them to grow and develop as individuals alongside a challenging academic curriculum in which they attain highly.

"The report is a tribute to the staff, students and everyone associated with the school and I would like to thank everyone for their continuing support."

John Gilbert, chairman of the governors, added: "This is a really excellent report.

"The staff are incredibly dedicated and have worked hard with the leadership team to move the school forward."

Further congratulations were sent by former chairman Neil Carmichael MP, who praised the work of Dr Wilson and previous acting headteacher Alyson Mills.