SPIRIT and teamwork are behind Cressex Community School’s continued rise – but its headteacher says the journey is not over yet.

Pupils returned last week fresh from learning their school had been ranked ‘good’ in an Ofsted report which also called the Sixth Form ‘outstanding’.

Headteacher David Hood said: “Everyone feels good about the Ofsted report – it was a very good outcome and a great reward for everyone.

“This is a school built on teamwork and a commitment to improve the chances of the young people that come here.

“We have a very strong team of teachers that are always refining their approach in the classroom and a strong support staff that ensures no-one falls through the net.”

While staff are working towards gaining an overall ‘outstanding’ rating in the future, Mr Hood believes the school’s ever improving reputation and its harmonious environment makes it a wonderful place to learn.

He said: “We are not sitting on our laurels – to be outstanding would be great, but the important thing is to be outstanding for the children that are here.

“At the heart of that is relationships - we work very hard with the young people and make sure this is a harmonious place to be.

“The pupils are happy here and when problems arise, which happens in every school, we address them. It’s about building a positive ethos.

“Once you have all those things in place, you can focus on what goes on in the classroom.”

Cressex was the second worst performing school in the county in 2009 before it became the first co-operative school in the county in 2010, which has seen it work alongside private schools and companies.

Later that year, Cressex Community School moved in to its impressive £31m base which has had a massive impact upon pupils’ self-esteem.

Mr Hood acknowledged there are still people who are skeptical about Cressex but he has urged them to take a look before they judge it.

He said: “I think we enjoy a good reputation now but there are a few that still need to be persuaded. I always say – come and have a look.

“I can point you to a number of parents that were skeptical about sending their children here who are now strong advocates of the school and can tell you how well we’ve done.

“In the last three years we’ve had appeals from parents trying to get their children in to the school - although we don’t like turning people away it is a positive sign that we are now a good option.

“Exams and Ofsted are things people can read, but you can’t read about spirit. You get these good outcomes by having the enthusiasm and doggedness to succeed, and that is shown here every day.”