A school in west Dorset has retained its 'good' school rating during a recent Ofsted inspection.

The Sir John Colfox Academy in Bridport has been recognised for being ‘ambitious for its pupils’ after creating a new curriculum.

The inspection took place across Tuesday, September 12 and Wednesday, September 13.

The inspectors found that students have strong relationships with adults, are encouraged to try new things, enjoy extra-curricular opportunities and are enthusiastic about reading.

The Ofsted report also said that students learn about the wider world and other cultures, were ‘polite and attentive’ and that the school’s career programme was praised for preparing students for the future.

Ofsted said the school’s ‘links with the local community are strong’ and was impressed with the school’s sixth form students who volunteer their time via the school’s ‘Give Back’ scheme to help younger students.

Bridport and Lyme Regis News:

The report highlighted that students' attitudes towards learning could be improved and that the school’s behavioural policy is not always implemented, which as a result saw a small number of pupils continue to disrupt lessons.

Headteacher Adam Shelley said: “We are proud that Ofsted have judged that we are a good school. I was pleased that Ofsted recognised that we are ambitious for all our students and that our new curriculum is well planned to increase achievement and our students’ enjoyment of their subjects.

“We are proud of all our students, and it was no surprise to us that Ofsted found them polite and attentive and noted that they described our school as tolerant and respectful,” he added.

Mr Shelley went on to say that the school wants students to enjoy their education and benefit from as many opportunities as possible.

Ofsted also recognised that pupils with SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) are accurately identified, are known well by their teachers and receive additional support when required.

Mr Shelley said: “The changes we are making across our school are part of an improvement journey, and I’d like to thank all our brilliant teachers and staff for all they do to support every student at our school as we continue this journey together.”