A GRAMMAR school is celebrating being rated outstanding in every category by education watchdog Ofsted.

Southend High School for Boys started the new year with teachers, pupils, parents and governors getting a pat on the back, after the results of a two-day surprise inspection in December were revealed.

The school, in Prittlewell Chase, is now one of the few schools in the country to have been awarded Ofsted’s top accolade in every category – leadership and management, behaviour and safety of pupils, quality of teaching, achievement of pupils, and sixth form provision.

Headteacher Robin Bevan said: “It was an unexpected challenge to be visited by Ofsted just a few days before the end of term.

“The quality of the lessons was superb and a genuine reflection of the everyday experience at the school.

“The pupils demonstrated their commitment to their learning and to the wide variety of activities offered beyond the classroom.

“The outstanding inspection report demonstrates the extraordinary strength and depth within the Southend High School for Boys community.”

Sharon O’Ryan, a parent governor, added: “All the pupils are so very proud of the school.

“As parents, we know the school is outstanding.

“The levels of enthusiasm, enjoyment, care and success are exceptional.

“We are immensely grateful to all the staff for their professional dedication and tireless support of our sons and daughters.”

The report was full of praise for the school’s high standards not only in academic, but also arts, sports and vocational fields.

It said: “An ethos of excellence in both academic achievement and a wide range of activities permeates all aspects of the school. High quality music wafted into the inspection base room as students practised the pipe organ and piano.

“The school contributes very successfully to art exhibitions, business competitions and international sporting challenges.”