Sutton Community Academy has gained its first good overall Ofsted rating, including areas that were described as outstanding.

The report said pupils, parents and staff were almost unanimous in their praise for the academy, which is part of Academy Transformation Trust.

Leadership was rated outstanding, with principal Tim Croft described as focused unremittingly on making improvements to the quality of teaching, pupil attitudes and pupil outcomes.

Inspectors said that focus has created a culture of higher expectations of both staff and pupils.

An outstanding rating was also given for personal development, behaviour and welfare, with inspectors noting pupils “develop into confident, articulate and enthusiastic young people, who aspire to achieve the very best they can.”

Behaviour in the academy was said to be of an exceptionally high standard.

Teaching, learning and assessment was commended, with inspectors recognising it as “good, with some that is of very high quality”.

The report praised the contribution of the trust to the governance of the academy as committed and highly effective.

Tim Croft said: “This report confirms that Sutton Community Academy is firmly on course to secure an overall outstanding rating, and is testimony to our commitment to provide the best education for all pupils.

“I am most proud that Ofsted have recognised that our pupils are truly outstanding, confirming a belief we have always held.”

“I thank the trust, governors, teaching staff and support staff for their dedication to improving standards and most of all, I want to acknowledge the vital role of the pupils and their families in delivering this excellent report, which is the highest achieving in the trust and in all of Ashfield.”

Ian Cleland, chief executive at the trust, said: “I am delighted that the outstanding job that Tim Croft has done at Sutton Community Academy has been recognised by Ofsted.

“It is also absolutely fantastic to have an Ofsted outstanding rating for personal development, behaviour and welfare for the pupils. The academy was very close to being outstanding overall.”