A North East school has received a glowing report from Government inspectors shortly after appointing a new head teacher.

Hurworth School, near Darington, has been rated as “good in all areas” in its latest Ofsted report following a September inspection.

The report coincides with Rachel Somerville taking over as Head of School, bringing with her a wealth of experience.

The Ofsted report says: “Strong relationships between staff and pupils are evident across the school” and adds that “pupils feel safe and happy”.

The school’s leaders are praised for being “passionate about providing an education that prepares pupils well for life”.

Leaders also ensure that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) gain the knowledge they need to succeed, and that all pupils receive high quality information about their next steps after school.

Mrs Somerville started at Hurworth in September and one of her first responsibilities was preparing staff for the Ofsted inspection and working closely with the inspectors.

She said: “The very positive report is especially significant because it comes at the end of a very challenging time when the school was emerging from the pandemic. The staff and the students have worked extremely hard in challenging circumstances and the rating underlines the excellent all-round education the school offers its students.”

Mrs Somerville, who hails from Sunderland, was previously Deputy Principal of North Durham Academy, in Stanley, where she was part of the senior management team that produced another strong Ofsted rating.

She started her career as a religious education teacher at Wolsingham Comprehensive before moving to Consett Academy, where her achievements included setting up a successful sixth form.

While at North Durham Academy, Mrs Somerville worked closely with Angela Sweeten, who recently took over as Headteacher at Longfield Academy which, like Hurworth School, is part of the Swift Academies Trust.

Mrs Somerville added: “What really attracted me to Hurworth is that it is a relatively small school, where I can get to know every pupil individually and build on strong foundations.

“I’ve been hugely impressed by the staff who are committed to going above and beyond and putting the pupils at the heart of everything they do.”

Dean Judson, Chief Executive of Swift Academies, said: “I am thrilled with the Ofsted report and extremely pleased for the staff, students, parents and carers who have worked in partnership to create such a fantastic school.

“The Directors were delighted to secure the services of both Mrs Somerville and Mrs Sweeten as they have worked very successfully in partnership previously, and I know they are keen to continue this successful working relationship, share good practice, and drive both schools forward.”