HIGH school staff and pupils have been given the thumbs up by inspectors.St Alban's Catholic High School, in Ipswich, has become the first school in Suffolk to be awarded an “outstanding” grade under the new Ofsted framework.

IPSWICH: High school staff and pupils have been given the thumbs up by inspectors.

St Alban's Catholic High School has become the first school in Suffolk to be awarded an “outstanding” grade under the new Ofsted framework.

The school, which has 1,000 children aged 11 to 18, received another glowing report from the inspectors following their two-day visit just before Christmas.

St Alban's, which holds specialist status for technology and inclusion and is based in Digby Road, Ipswich, also achieved an “outstanding” judgement in their previous inspection back in 2007.

Paul McGrath, chair of governors, said: “We are very pleased that the report once again recognises the exceptional work and effort of our teachers as well as the highly effective leadership of the senior staff and especially the head Mr McGarry.

“I feel it is also very important to note that Ofsted attributed part of our success to the pupils' outstanding efforts and behaviour.

“This outcome has only been possible because of the excellent contributions by all involved. Each and every member of the school community can justifiably feel proud of themselves.”

Headteacher Dennis McGarry added: “We are of course absolutely delighted to see our continued success officially recognised in this way.

“Such positive praise from the inspectors does not mean of course that we will rest on our laurels. We are always looking at ways to improve.”