Hazel Grove High School is celebrating a 'highly positive' Ofsted report following an inspection in April this year.

Under the inspectorate's new grading system, the school was deemed 'strong' in four areas, and of 'expected standard' in three others.

Ofsted's new system has done away with short summaries like 'outstanding' and 'good', and now assesses schools across seven categories, with each being given a grade.

There are five graded tiers, from top to bottom: exceptional; strong standard; expected standard; needs attention; and urgent improvement.

Of strong standard at Hazel Grove High School were: inclusion; leadership and governance; personal development & wellbeing; and post-16 provision.

Of expected standard were: achievement; attendance; and behaviour.

Inspectors found that the school's staff and governors had "a clear, ambitious vision for the school" and "uncompromisingly high expectations for all pupils."

They also praised the school's broad and well-taught curriculum, where teachers demonstrated not just great subject knowledge but also good communication skills.

Ofsted found that "pupils enjoy learning" and engage positively with their studies, including opportunities to explore complex current issues and develop cultural appreciation.

Similarly, the inspection confirmed that students "achieve well overall in national examinations", and that by the end of Year 11, pupils leave with the qualifications they need to, then "progress confidently on to further education, employment or training".

Furthermore, the sixth form was deemed a significant strength of the school. Students follow, "an ambitious and broad academic curriculum" and "achieve highly," with outcomes at the end of Year 13 above the national average.

The school's careers programme was also recognised as being, "highly effective," ensuring pupils and students are well prepared for their next steps.

The same applies to activities outside the classroom, such as museum trips, Duke of Edinburgh awards, sports, and more.

As for inclusion, inspectors said the school had a 'sophisticated understanding' of disadvantage, with strong support in place for pupils with SEND.

Emma Moroney, Head of School at Hazel Grove High School, said: "We are very pleased that Ofsted has recognised the strength of our school and the positive culture we are continuing to build.

"We are proud that the report reflects both our high expectations for students and the strong outcomes they achieve, alongside the inclusive ethos that sits at the heart of Hazel Grove.

"It is particularly encouraging to see the recognition of our Sixth Form, our leadership, and the wide range of opportunities available to our students both in and beyond the classroom.

"This is a really positive moment for our school community, and we will use it as a strong platform to build from and to ensure every student leaves Hazel Grove confident, successful and well prepared for the future of their choice."

Linda Magrath OBE, CEO of the Laurus Trust (of which Hazel Grove High is a part), added: "This is a very positive report for Hazel Grove High School and a reflection of the commitment, expertise and ambition of everyone across the school community.

"At the Laurus Trust, we are focused on levelling the playing field for young people, making sure that background, need or circumstance does not limit what a student can achieve. It is therefore particularly pleasing to see Ofsted recognise the school's commitment to inclusion at all levels.

"The report also highlights the strength of leadership at Hazel Grove, the quality of professional development for staff, and the shared commitment to ensuring students are well taught, well supported and well prepared for their next steps.

"We are proud of the progress the school is making and will continue to work closely with leaders, staff, governors and families as Hazel Grove builds on this success."