A leading national school guide has issued a glowing review for The King’s School after impressing critics with providing a ‘first class’ education for youngsters.

Sidmouth Herald: Kings School's new canteen. Ref sho 17 18TI 1671. Picture: Terry IfeKings School's new canteen. Ref sho 17 18TI 1671. Picture: Terry Ife (Image: Archant)

The Good School Guide released its latest report saying the school was one of a ‘precious few’ that inspired strong admiration and affection from staff, pupils and the local community.

The sections discussed the school at length, from academic matters, atmosphere, pastoral care, well-being, to discipline and headteacher style.

The guide is regarded for its ‘unbiased and candid school reviews’ advising parents for the last 30 years.

The report said: “All Devon schools have for years suffered from below average funding and King’s receives less than the average for Devon.

“If King’s were in Birmingham, the school’s income would be boosted by a £million a year.

“Impressive therefore to see how far they make a little money go.

“The school has its own charitable fund (Foundation and Jubilee Trust) to support less well-off students and worthy enterprises. Gifts amount to less than £1,000 a year so there’s probably scope to encourage more philanthropy.

“It does exactly what all parents wish their local school would do: provide a first class education for everybody. All good schools inspire strong admiration. King’s is a good school.

“Of these, a small fraction inspire strong affection. King’s is one of these precious few.”

The report said a ‘crown jewel’ of the school was the student parliament and pupils’ ability which ‘knocked out’ the reviewer with their ability to speak to staff and governors about matters of concern.

The guide also noted the school’s ‘brilliant’ special need provisions and induction process offered to new students entering the school.

It read: “Within three minutes max, you feel perfectly certain that you are in an exceptionally good school.”

Rob Gammon, headteacher for The King’s School, said: “This is something that should be celebrated by the local community as the school has come out with a glowing review.

“I am so proud that the hard work of students and staff has been recognised in the review and that it reflects the very special community that makes up The King’s School.”