A GRAMMAR school is celebrating after retaining its top Ofsted rating following its first inspection for 14 years.

Westcliff High School for Girls, in Kenilworth Gardens, has been rated “outstanding” in all areas in a glowing report after it was inspected on February 6 and 7.

Inspectors have praised school leaders after finding pupils are “very well prepared for life beyond school”.

The school was rated as “outstanding” in 2010 but had not had a full inspection by the education watchdog since.

Westcliff High School for Girls has bucked the nationally trend by retaining its outstanding rating after a recent study revealed that four of of five schools had dropped from the top grade since 2020.

In the report, seen by the Echo, it stated: “Pupils’ exemplary behaviour and positive attitudes to learning reflect leaders’ high expectations.

“They show respect for each other and for staff. The welcome given to visitors, including in pupils’ willingness to share their learning, is impressive.

“High aspirations and a deep-rooted ambition for pupils to excel are embedded throughout the school. The provision extends way beyond the national curriculum and examination expectations.

“Pupils are very well prepared for life beyond the school. The curriculum includes important preparation for their next stages in education, employment and/or training.”

At the time of the inspection, there were 1,333 pupils at the school, all aged between 11 and 18.

Emma Matthews, headteacher at Westcliff High School for Girls, said: “The Ofsted report reflects how we, as a team, provide exceptional opportunities for our students to develop their talents, express their individuality, and flourish into successful and exceptional young adults.

“To the staff, this outcome reflects the unwavering commitment, professionalism, and dedication of everyone within our school community, and to the students, this report exemplifies what highly motivated, aspirational ambassadors you are.

“We are all extremely proud.”

Andrew Cooper, CEO of the South East Essex Academy Trust, added: “I am delighted that Ofsted have recognised that Westcliff High School for Girls is an outstanding school.

“As the report says, we have reviewed, refreshed, and redesigned the curriculum and staff continue to improve their practice through effective training opportunities. At Westcliff High School for Girls there is no room for complacency.”

There were no areas of improvement highlighted in the report for the school to make.