An upper school has received a glowing stamp of approval in its latest report from Ofsted inspectors.

St Augustine of Canterbury Upper School, at Iffley Turn, Oxford, had more strengths than weaknesses and was judged to have improved since its last inspection four years ago.

The school, which has 634 pupils, is unusual as it is supported by both the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of England.

Among the strong points noted by the team were good teaching, which led to good progress by Students, particularly those with below average attainment. The team singled out the strong leadership in senior management and effective monitoring of attendance.

Inspectors also remarked on the good relationships and positive attitudes between all members of the school community.

The report said: "Students are very well managed and lessons are disciplined affairs. Teachers expect good behaviour and get it."

Teaching was also of a high quality with 93 per cent of lessons described as satisfactory or better.

Inspectors did identify some issues for improvement. These included improving continuity for pupils coming into the school.

Headteacher Mrs Elisabeth Gilpin said: "We are pleased that Ofsted were so positive about the school. We feel it was a fair inspection, with an accurate report that reflects the positive approach of staff and students." Points of excellence

Good teaching which leads to good progress by students

Good relationships and positive attitudes between members of the school community

The school carries out detailed and effective monitoring of attendance

Good leadership in senior management

The school promotes personal, moral and social development of students

It runs an effective sixth form. Points for improvement

There is a lack of continuity of the curriculum

Cultural aspects of the school are underdeveloped

The school needs to improve assessment and target-setting for special needs students.

Story date: Monday 22 February

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