STAFF and pupils at a Newport school are celebrating after becoming the first secondary school in south east Wales to be graded “excellent” under new inspection guidelines.

Caerleon Comprehensive achieved top marks in the new Estyn framework with inspectors praising learners for their outstanding results at all key stages.

Pupils were also applauded for their commitment to succeed and their standards of achievement in learning Welsh as a second language.

The inspection report also congratulates the school on its highly inclusive ethos, which ensures everyone is supported in a caring environment.

The school has now been asked to prepare a written case study detailing its excellent practice so others can follow in its footsteps.

Headteacher Tim Pratt said: “We are thrilled that the hard work and commitment of all the members of the Caerleon Comprehensive community have been recognised in the report.

“It is a reflection of the determination of the school consistently to maintain the highest standards, and to continue to improve wherever we can.”