A Caterham school has been given the tick of approval following a school inspection.

With a group of students who are "willing to take risks," Woldingham School was awarded ‘excellent’ in all areas by the Independent Schools Inspectorate.

In what was a strong showing by the school during its inspection in January this year, there were a few areas that stood out over the rest.

"The pupils demonstrate excellent levels of empathy and tolerance towards others, respecting and valuing diversity," the inspector wrote in the report.

"They show a genuine appreciation of how kindness makes for a better, family-orientated community.

"Pupils demonstrate an excellent understanding that individual success is not the only factor in their development and that co-operation can result in better outcomes for all."

Academic and personal development of the students were the key outcomes judged as part of the inspection.

It was also the improvement on the sporting field that helped garner the excellent ratings.

"Pupils enjoy the challenge of competitive sport and show support for each other in the team and individual events," the report said.

"Active and skilful participation in team sports results in success in local, regional and national competitions.

"Talent, confidence and participation in the arts was also noted with both parents and pupils believing ‘that these opportunities greatly enhance pupils’ achievement."

This was all welcome news to headmistress Alex Hutchinson.

"The inspection report is a glowing commendation of our wonderful school and testament to the endeavour, resilience and kindness that our pupils demonstrate day in day out," she said.

"I am delighted that the ability, commitment and success of our community have been recognised and am so proud that the inspectors understood the family-spirit that makes Woldingham so distinctive."