A secondary school where pupils and staff "give and expect the best" has reacted after it was rated 'outstanding' by Ofsted. 

Barking Abbey School in Sandringham Road, Barking, received the highest rating from the education watchdog following an inspection on January 31.

With 'outstanding' scores across the board for its quality of education, pupils' behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management and sixth-form provision, its new rating was one higher than the previous 'good' rating.

Executive headteacher Tony Roe said: "We are so proud of this achievement.

"It really is a team effort from the pupils, staff, governors and parents.

Barking and Dagenham Post: They were rated Outstanding across all five categoriesThey were rated Outstanding across all five categories (Image: Barking Abbey School)"Our community has had a lot to deal with over the past years due to austerity and the pandemic and this is great recognition for our community and something we can all celebrate."

Inspectors reported that all students are "exceptionally well supported", including their pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEND). 

The report also commented on the high quality of teaching the school offers to pupils, describing subject knowledge among staff as "excellent". 

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Aside from teaching in lesson settings, the school was also commended for the qualities shown by pupils. 

Inspectors wrote: "Pupils, and students in the sixth form, are supportive and respectful of each other.

Barking and Dagenham Post: The school is reportedly so proud of the achievementThe school is reportedly so proud of the achievement (Image: Google Maps)"There is a strong emphasis on the development of positive character habits and pupils are rewarded when they demonstrate these."

Barking Abbey teaches pupils up to a college level at their sixth form. 

Ofsted appeared particularly impressed with the consistent support for their sixth form students. 

They reported: "Leaders have developed a very strong personalised careers programme that includes meaningful work experience.

"Pupils, and students in the sixth form, are encouraged to develop as responsible, active citizens."

The report was made available to the public earlier this month on March 5.