THE Chase School in Malvern has received a glowing report from Ofsted, its fourth positive report in a row from the schools inspection agency.

Head teacher Kevin Peck said he was delighted with the report published this week, especially since the head of the inspection team told him the criteria had been made more stringent.

The team visited the school last month, and graded it as outstanding or good - the top two grades - in all areas.

Among the comments was that the Chase is "a good school with significant features of outstanding strength" and "a vibrant learning community".

Pastoral care and leadership are "exemplary", while the school's links with primary schools and local businesses are "excellent".

The only substantial criticism was that while "teaching is good and at times outstanding, there remains some inconsistency in how well teachers plan and teach lessons to meet the learning needs of different ability groups."

Mr Peck said: "I am delighted with this ringing endorsement of the Chase against even tougher measures of success. The consistent and dedicated hard work of students, teachers, parents and governors towards the common goal of excellence for all has been rightly recognised."