Staff and students at Felixstowe School are celebrating after achieving a ‘Good’ Ofsted rating – the first one in its history.

The school achieved a ‘Good’ rating in every category with students described as “happy, safe and cared for” following the inspection last month.

Headteacher Emma Wilson-Downes said: “As a school, we are delighted with the outcome of the inspection where the overall effectiveness of Felixstowe School was seen to be good.

“In all five areas, the school was judged to be good, including in our Sixth Form, which was particularly praised for its nurturing atmosphere and excellent support.

“Personal development was also highly praised, with students in receipt of a well-planned programme of study and careers education throughout the school.

“We are excited to continue our work to ensure that we continue to drive all areas further over the next months and years to come.”

Felixstowe School, which is run by Unity Schools Partnership, was previously graded as ‘requires improvement’ by the education watchdog in 2021.

The latest full inspection said pupils enjoy an ambitious, broad and balanced curriculum, which means they are well placed for a range of future study or career options.

This includes in the sixth form, where students benefit from the strong subject knowledge of teachers, and teaching that focuses on individual needs.

Inspectors commented that sixth form students are consistently positive in their behaviour and attitude and are highly supportive of one another.

The curriculum also came in for praise for how it supports students with special educational needs.

Students themselves were also praised for their behaviour and their high expectations for both future achievements and making a positive contribution to society.

Tim Coulson, Chief Executive of Unity Schools Partnership, said: “Families in Felixstowe for too long did not have a secondary school graded ‘good’ in their town.

“We are proud to be associated with staff that now provide the education children should receive.”

The inspection report said the trust has provided highly effective support to the school, including adding capacity in terms of leadership which has helped to accelerate the pace of improvement.

The school was also recognised for the consideration it gives to staff wellbeing when making decisions and this has resulted in the school attracting and retaining great teachers.