A GRAMMAR school has retained its top Ofsted rating following its first inspection for 14 years after no areas of improvement highlighted.

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

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

Here are the 20 key points from the Ofsted report - released on the watchdog's website this morning:

'Respect'

Students at Westcliff High School for Girls show respect for each other and for staff, according to the watchdog.

They found the welcome given to visitors, including in pupils' willingness to share their learning, is impressive.

Curriculum

The school has "reviewed, refreshed and redesigned" the curriculum and the report states that the provision extends way beyond the national curriculum and examination expectations.

Pupils access a wide range of subjects across year groups, including in the sixth form and new content builds securely on what pupils and students already know.

SEND

Teachers work closely with the school’s special educational needs co-ordinator so that pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) routinely achieve as well as others.

Inspectors also found pupils with SEND take on similar responsibilities to their peers.

Behaviour

Inspectors found "high standards of behaviour" in lessons and even at social times.

The "very rare" cases where behaviour falls short of expectations are managed well and attitudes to learning are "exemplary".

Attendance rates are high and pupils work hard and contribute well to the school community.

The report states pupils are "highly motivated" and almost display positive attitudes.

'Continuous improvement'

Ofsted says staff continue to improve their practice through effective training opportunities and this focus on continuous improvement is well established at all levels.

Inspectors found the trust, governing body and school leaders also have an accurate understanding of the quality of education and are considerate of staff workload when making changes.

Pupil development

The report adds: "Pupils’ wider development is well catered for. This includes through the extensive opportunities for leadership roles.

"Sixth-form students and younger pupils run lunchtime clubs. Those studying engineering in Year 11 and Year 12, for example, inspire others when speaking about the student-built racing car. They also lead various clubs linked to science, technology, engineering and mathematics."

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective at the school.

"Pupils learn to stay safe and to make safe choices. They are safe in school," the report adds.

Extra-curricular activities

There is something for everyone to take part in outside of lessons with a vast array of lunchtime clubs, Ofsted found.

Many pupils take part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award, while others enjoy, for example, debating, engineering, and knitting clubs.

'Welcoming'

The school was hailed as welcoming to inspectors, and older pupils also welcome new-starters and help them settle in.

It said: "New pupils settle in quickly. Pupils in Year 7 speak with pride and excitement about their school. Students who join in the sixth form rapidly develop a sense of belonging. They are confident and well-integrated into the school’s community."

Aspirations

High aspirations and a deep-rooted ambition for pupils to excel are "embedded throughout the school".

"Pupils have clear aspirations for the future. They are well supported to achieve their ambitious aims," inspectors said.

"All year groups take part in a well-considered programme of careers education. Regular visiting speakers offer insights into business, industry and higher education. Many students progress to university and other appropriate routes such as higher-level apprenticeships."