ERMYSTED'S Grammar School is a good school with an outstanding sixth form, according to Ofsted inspectors.

The Government watchdogs descended on the Skipton secondary school last month and have delivered a glowing report, praising the leadership, quality of teaching and provision for years 12 and 13, which offers uncommon courses such as archaeology.

They said: "This is an outstanding sixth form. Students enter with well above average standards and make excellent progress; they leave with results which are exceptionally high. This is directly due to outstanding teaching and very high levels of student motivation.

"A wide range of courses very closely meets the ambitions and aspirations of all students, and almost all who start courses finish them.

"In 2005 almost every student who completed year 13 went on to higher education, with a significant number gaining entry to top universities. The support and guidance which students receive are excellent. The sixth form is very cost effective."

Inspectors also praised headteacher Tom Ashworth for setting a good example, adding: "Improvement since the last inspection has been considerable under the present headteacher. The issues identified then have been addressed and money has been wisely spent to improve accommodation and facilities.

"The governing body is well led by the chair of governors and, in the last three years, has started to define and develop its role as a 'critical friend'."

Students make good progress in their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development and there has also been progress in introducing a programme to educate boys on a wide range of issues such as drugs, sex and personal safety.

But the school must improve its progress in years 10 and 11. Inspectors stated the school should investigate the quality of learning in these years so that students mirrored the progress made in other year groups.

Headteacher Tom Ashworth told the Herald he was pleased with the report and said it was a credit to the whole school community, including staff, pupils, governors and parents.

He said the inspection had flagged up the school's strengths and areas for improvement, which it was already aware of.

Deputy headteacher and head of sixth form David Clough was also delighted with the report. "It's the result of excellent teaching by dedicated and professional staff," he said.

Head boy Anthony Connor said the sixth form was strong due to the way pupils were trained throughout their early years at the school.

Deputy head boy Adrian Harwood added: "I think it's because the staff take the time to make sure you get the best out of every lesson."