A SCHOOL has received the highest seal of approval from those that matter the most ­— the pupils.

School inspectors from Ofsted found that young people enjoy going to Thornleigh Salesian College and that pupils really did think their teachers were first class.

The school in Astley Bridge was recently inspected by the Government's education watchdog which found it "continues to be a good school".

Ofsted inspectors reported: "Pupils say that they feel safe and that they like coming to school. They say that the best thing about school is their teachers. Pupils are confident that their teachers will look after them and help them with their learning."

Teachers were said to have high expectations of pupils, with young people focusing "well on their learning".

"Leaders have created a caring ethos where pupils enjoy learning and achieve well in their

GCSE examinations. Overall, students in the sixth form also achieve well," stated inspectors.

They added: "Teachers have high expectations of how pupils should behave during lessons. Teachers have equally high expectations of students’ attitudes to learning in the sixth form.

"This means that pupils and students can concentrate on their work."

The school was praised for offering pupils a wealth of enrichment activities in sport and arts and culture. And Ofsted singled out the work done by young people in their local community and to raise awareness about issues including climate change ­— and how pupils can make a difference.

"Staff encourage pupils to embrace school life. Pupils value the opportunities ," reported inspectors, who also praised the school for ensuring staff were well-cared for.

"Staff say that they are proud to be part of a supportive community. They appreciate leaders’ actions to reduce their workload and remove any ‘unnecessary paperwork’. Staff feel that leaders are highly considerate of both their physical and mental well-being," stated the inspection report.

Headteacher Andrea O'Callaghan said: "We are absolutely delighted with the outcome of our inspection which recognises all the hard work and dedication of all members of our school community. The staff commit themselves each and every day to ensuring that all our students have the opportunity to fulfil their potential academically, spiritually and socially."