Immanuel college is providing an excellent education to its pupils, according to the Independent Schools Inspectorate.

A team of seven inspectors who visited the Bushey school in June gave it the top rating for educational quality.

Pupils made “rapid progress” in exam courses, with achievements in GCSEs and A-levels well above the average for state schools and IGCSE results above “world-wide norms”.

“Pupils of all ages acquire excellent levels of understanding and knowledge in the majority of lessons and demonstrate high levels of performance and creativity in their extra-curricular activities,” the ISI said.

They were “enthusiastic and determined learners, willingly prepared to take risks… and to rise to challenge when offered”.

They also showed strong appreciation of the “non-material aspects” of school life, displaying a well-developed awareness of moral issues, empathy and tolerance towards others and an excellent sense of community. 

Many pupils found pleasure in creative work and were encouraged to develop their talents in painting, textile design and media, while some gained national awards in music and drama.

Headteacher Gary Griffin said he was “absolutely delighted to receive this outstanding report, which has classified Immanuel as excellent in both pupil achievement and personal development of pupils — the highest grade the ISI can award.”

Mr Griffin said it was “a wonderful endorsement and a suitable reward for the hard work of the staff and pupils, who impressed the inspectors with their commitment and passion. I am very proud of them all.” 

Chair of governors Antony Warrens and Edward Misrahi said they were “confident that the college is in good hands and destined for even greater progress in the months and years ahead.”

At the time of inspection, the school had 681 pupils from four to 19 — close to its capacity of 700. The inspectorate noted it had 272 students with special educational needs or some form of disability.