HAMPSHIRE's first all-through school has received glowing praise from inspectors.

During a short visit to The Westgate School in Cheriton Road in September, Ofsted found it remains good but may be judged outstanding if a full, graded inspection were to take place.

The regulator described the school as a "happy and vibrant community, where pupils are encouraged to aim for excellence".

It said pupil behaviour is "very impressive" and they "talk enthusiastically about their school and the part they play in its success".

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One parent told inspectors: "My children are extremely happy at Westgate. There is a strong focus on well-being and happiness but also an expectation of high achievement."

Westgate was further lauded for its ability to identify students with special educational needs or learning difficulties (SEND), adding that having SEND was not seen as an indication of having a low academic ability.

One pupil with SEND, said: "‘Since the school has identified my needs it feels like all the barriers have been removed and I can focus on achieving my best."

Student safeguarding was labeled as 'effective' and, even though bullying is rare, staff speak to them about it regularly and make it clear it is not tolerated.

Westgate's next Ofsted inspection will be a graded one and, if it can achieve similar feedback, would signal the first time in the school's history that it has received top marks.

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Headteacher Fae Dean said: "This is such an incredible achievement for our school which never before has received such an accolade from Ofsted and, in what is a very challenging inspection framework.

"We now have our second cohort of pupils all-through who have moved into Year 7 and despite all of the challenges of the pandemic, we have evolved into a really successful, all-through school that provides a great education for all children - those who have been to our primary phase and those who join us in Year 7.

"Our outcomes continue to be excellent in all phases and this is a testament to the high quality of provision and dedication of the whole team."