MARK Coulter, director of Creative Arts, recently took up his post after 15 years at a comprehensive school. He said: “The school is very friendly and everyone looks out for each other. It has got a special feel about it and is going places.”

PARENT Hillary Hosking, who has a son in Year 8, said: “There is an energy you notice – Mr Duckitt and his staff’s enthusiasm is infectious.  I am so pleased that my son is in such a happy and inspiring environment at school.

NICKY Lane, who has a daughter in Year 9, is pleased with the high academic standards and the variety of extra-curricular activities. “There is something for everyone,” she said.  My daughter looks forward to going to school.”

SPANISH teacher Raquel Diaz said: The school provides a huge amount of opportunities for the students to grow as well-rounded, global citizens by expecting academic excellence and by providing opportunities to develop other aspects.

HEAD girl Charlotte Hodgson hopes to study English at Oxford. She said: “The school is bigger than when I started and offers more cultural influences.  The teachers inspire you to learn. They are genuinely interested in their subjects.”

BEA Brett, 12, is in Year 8 and won a scholarship to be part of the swimming academy.  She said: “I love boarding because I feel like I have another family here.  All of us want to do well in all of our subjects and I get to do lots of training.”