The oldest-established independent school in Ipswich has been judged as “excellent” in all areas in an inspection.

A team from the Independent Schools Inspectorate visited Ipswich School in Henley Road in November, and found the school had made significant improvements since the last inspection six years ago.

Headmaster Nicholas Weaver said he was extremely proud of what the school had achieved.

“We are absolutely delighted that all aspects of Ipswich School have been rated as excellent,” he said.

“This is a wonderful endorsement of all that we do here to enthuse young people with a passion for learning, helping them to reach their full potential.”

The report highlights that the boarding school is excellent in all key areas including the personal development of pupils, the provision of extra-curricular activities, the quality of boarding and the arrangement to ensure the welfare, health and safety of the pupils.

Karl Daniels, chairman of governors, said: “I would like to pay tribute to the hard work and dedication of all members of staff, governors, parents and pupils who have contributed to this outstanding report.

“The inspectors spent a lot of time investigating all aspects of Ipswich School, and to have such a positive report really is excellent news.

“With the completion of our fantastic sports centre at Rushmere there is much to celebrate.”

In September, Ipswich School took over Rushmere Sports Centre, giving it access to three hockey pitches and six netball courts, which convert to tennis courts.

The school is proud of its sporting success, with teams often competing at the highest level in regional and national competitions.

A group of nine inspectors visited the school over four days.

They observed lessons, conducted interviews with pupils, senior staff and governors, saw co-curricular activities and visited the boarding house.

In the report, the inspectors found the school’s standards in physical education were “exceptional”, noting a number of pupils attained gold in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme.

It also acknowledges that the pupils have an excellent level of knowledge, skill and understanding across all subject areas, as a result of an ambitious curriculum and excellent teaching.

However, the inspectors found one area to recommend for further improvement – ensuring consistency of practice across all departments – an area that Mr Weaver said was already in their development plan.

He said: “A number of exciting developments are happening over the next year, not least the official opening of the Ipswich School Sports Centre at Rushmere and the building of the new music school, which will provide excellent facilities for the local community as well as the school, and we can look to a very positive future.”