STAFF have been praised in a latest Ofsted inspection for building ‘positive relationships’ with pupils and creating an ‘ambitious’ curriculum.

The Swanage School, on High Street, have maintained its ‘good’ Ofsted rating and have been upgraded to ‘outstanding’ for personal development.

Inspectors found a ‘strong community’ at the school where bullying is ‘extremely rare’ because of the culture of tolerance and kindness.

“Pupils are empathetic and learn how to take responsibility for their actions.

“They are supportive of one another and proud of their unique school.”

The school prides itself on pupils’ wider experiences including a range of national and international trips as well as a number of clubs and activities.

Inspectors, who visited on November 8 and November 9, identified an ‘ambitious curriculum’ they found some areas of development are still in ‘early stages’.

Pupils with special educational needs (SEND) are supported well and pupils ‘mostly achieve well’.

READ MORE: Children ‘flourish’ and ‘rise to high expectations’ at Bournemouth school

The Swanage School supports a culture of reading and helps struggling pupils to catch up.

Most pupils enjoy and are proud to attend school, however, ‘too many pupils are persistently absent’.

Although inspectors found that staff work closely with families to support some 350 pupils and encourage attendance.

Headteacher Jenny Maraspin said: “The inspectors were particularly impressed with our integrated and impactful curriculum, students’ motivation and positive attitude to learning, and with our teachers for their high expectations, tailored questioning, and subject expertise.

“We are incredibly proud that the report gives recognition to the excellent education and opportunities The Swanage School provides for students.

“In turn, this recognises the tremendous efforts of our staff on behalf of students. They really are relentless in their dedication to continually drive the school forward.

“To receive particular recognition for the positive role the School plays in the personal development of students is very pleasing given the importance of the school experience for preparing young people for their next steps and in helping them grow the confidence and skills to build successful lives.”

Chair of governors Tim Marcus said: “On behalf of the Board of Governors, I congratulate the entire staff team in having their hard work and commitment to providing a broad education for every student so extensively recognised and praised.

“It is incredibly rewarding to have the school’s unique ethos shine through so clearly to the inspectors during their visit.

“They picked up on the strong sense of pride in the school felt by both staff and students, and this is a pride that the Board of Governors share.”