A secondary school in Upminster has been praised for its "caring community" where pupils are given the support to "thrive".

Sacred Heart of Mary Girls' School, in St Mary's Lane, Upminster, has been rated 'outstanding' across all inspection areas by Ofsted after an inspection on October 1 and 2.

Although schools do not get awarded an overall effectiveness grade following changes brought in this term, Sacred Heart of Mary Girls' School scored the top grade in all five areas: quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth form provision.

READ MORE: What are the Ofsted ratings for Havering secondary schools?

Ofsted described the school as a place where the 831 pupils perform "exceptionally well" in their studies and gain "confidence and resilience".

Its "ambitious and broad" curriculum is adapted so that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities can achieve highly, say inspectors.

The Ofsted report, published on November 11, said: "Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) access the same curriculum.

"The school is adept at identifying undiagnosed SEND and ensuring that staff are well trained in understanding pupils’ individual needs."

Reading is noted as an important part of the school's culture, while students get a "deep and rich" understanding of content in subjects such as history.

READ MORE: Nelmes Primary School, Hornchurch Ofsted report published

Vivienne Qurrey, headteacher, said the whole of the school community is "delighted" with the judgements of Ofsted.

Ms Qurrey said: "Every day I am blessed to work alongside talented and hard working staff and pupils who make me more and more proud every day.

"Sacred Heart of Mary Girls' School is a vibrant and caring community where our pupils are able to thrive.

"I am so glad that the Ofsted inspection team were able to see this in action."

Ofsted inspectors highlighted how the secondary school has an "exceptional offer beyond the academic" - something which they say is highly valued by parents and carers.

Pupils have access to a wide range of lunch and after-school clubs, get to take part in an annual "house drama" competition, and even have a voice in the running of the school.

Guest speakers "enhance" pupils' learning and students learn about topics such as consent and gas-lighting at an "age-appropriate level".

Overall, Ofsted said: "Pupils thrive in this caring school community.

"Pupils are safe and well looked after.

"They believe that the school prepares them well for their next steps."