STAFF and pupils at the 1,712-pupil King Alfred's Community and Sports College, in Wantage, are celebrating after being rated outstanding or good in every aspect of its education by inspectors.

They described the school as "good with outstanding features" and were impressed by its ability to offer different types of support to meet the needs of individual pupils.

High academic standards and the school's broad and flexible curriculum, particularly at Key Stage Three and Four, received glowing reports.

Innovative teaching practice and leadership by the headteacher and his team were praised too.

In addition, the school sports college specialism was said to have an "outstanding impact" on the development and well-being of the students.

Headteacher Nicholas Young said: "This is a great endorsement, not only of the college's students and staff but of the way in which the whole community pulls together to make King Alfred's so successful.

"Inspectors referred frequently on their visit to the roles played by local businesses, our local school's network, and by parents and governors - which are key."

He added: "I'm most proud of the fact the inspectors liked our curriculum and were very excited about it. They liked the fact we encourage teachers to take risks to make lessons interesting and exciting.

"We have got to aim now to be outstanding in all areas and we've set ourselves very high examination targets.

"Our students are motivated by being able to choose their subjects and courses a year early, and from a wide range of subjects."

Inspector Emma Ing identified areas for the school to build on, which included the availability of the students' performance data so it could be analysed by staff to set targets and the refinement of planning.

Mr Young said: "I love the school and I've always been very keen to develop the curriculum and make it the best school in the country."