OUTSTANDING and “a haven for aspiration”.

That was the verdict of inspectors after a visit to Redbridge Community School in Southampton, where they delivered a report that simply says education does not get any better than this.

Ofsted – the schools watchdog – described Redbridge as “exceptional, improving the life chances of every one of its pupils”.

In every category the school was judged as excellent, with teachers described as “always enthusiastic, often charismatic and at times quite inspirational”.

The leadership under head teacher Jason Ashley, who came to the school two years ago, and his senior management team was also highly praised as having achieved a “staggering amount”.

Speaking about the report, Mr Ashley said: “I don’t mind admitting that when I read it, I cried. When the work that everyone does is recognised like that it is quite something.”

But Mr Ashley said there is more to be done: “We basically do more of the same. As great as it is to get this sort of report we know what we need to do to keep improving and keep getting the best for the children.

Excellence “We demand excellence from everyone connected with the school and make no apologies for that.

“There aren’t any excuses here. Kids come through the door with a lot of baggage at times but it is our job to cut through that, get them focused on what this school and education can do for them. If you can do that in one of the most deprived areas of Southampton you can do that anywhere.”