HEATHFIELD Community School was judged 'outstanding' in all five categories following a full OFSTED inspection.

The school received the top grading for leadership and management, behaviour and safety of pupils, quality of teaching and achievement of pupils and sixth form provision.

It is the second time Heathfield has received 'outstanding' status following the last full inspection in December 2006.

Somerset County Gazette:

Head teacher Peter Hoare said: “We are obviously delighted with this outcome and it is a vindication of all the hard work that has been done over a long period of time.

"Naturally we want to celebrate this important milestone.

"I pay tribute again to the extraordinary commitment and energy of all the staff team, both teaching and non-teaching. Each and every one of them makes an invaluable contribution.

"As always, the students without exception were exemplary. Throughout they demonstrated a dedication and pride in all that they do and conveyed to the Inspectors how highly they value the school. They were a credit to themselves, their families and Heathfield.

Somerset County Gazette:

"The depth and breadth of the Heathfield experience never ceases to amaze me with so many enriching learning experiences.

"I want to thank the governing body for their ongoing support and encouragement.

"I also wish to thank the vast majority of parents for their support and recognition of the school’s work through the Ofsted questionnaire.

"However, this is a moment in time. The school never stands still, we take nothing for granted and we will always strive to do things even better in the interests of all our students.

"This is an exciting time for Heathfield and we look forward with confidence to the challenges ahead.”

Somerset County Gazette:

SUMMARY OF KEY FINDINGS.

•The successes of this outstanding school are founded upon a school-wide focus on nurturing and enhancing the learning, achievements and well-being of every individual student.

•The focus on continual improvement for all within the community is conspicuous and highly effective.

•Leadership is very productively distributed. At all levels, those with leadership responsibilities are resolute in their goal to help each and every student to succeed.

•The school’s Performing Arts specialism makes an exceptionally strong contribution to the achievement of students; it enriches their school experience and promotes strong cultural, personal and social development.

•Relationships between staff and students are highly positive, and teachers employ their considerable expertise diligently.

•Students enjoy their school experiences, are motivated to work hard, and attend school regularly. Their behaviour is outstanding. They are typically courteous, respectful to all people and take care of their environment.

•The sixth form provides specialist courses and experiences for the performing arts and is outstanding.

•Governors are highly committed to the academic and wider achievement of students, and to their safety and well-being.

Somerset County Gazette:

OTHER COMMENTS.

•"The behaviour of students is outstanding."

•"Students are tidy, courteous, friendly and respectful of other people and the school environment."

•"There is a lively and energising ‘buzz’ in the school……. They value the way teachers ‘go the extra mile’ to help them."

•"They also demonstrate that they can manage their own learning when required, and have high expectations of themselves. Most students are confident and articulate. They adapt quickly to different learning scenarios such as group work or individual tasks."

•"The school’s work to keep pupils safe and secure is outstanding."

•"Because students enjoy school and value their learning, attendance throughout the school is good."

•"Based on mutual trust and respect, students generally value and enjoy lessons."

Somerset County Gazette: