An academically high-achieving Charedi school has been warmly congratulated by Ofsted for its all-round character.

Inspectors found “exemplary” behaviour, “highly dedicated staff” and an “ambitious and rich curriculum” at Menorah High School for Girls in Cricklewood.

The school was ranked sixth out of all state schools in England for academic progress of pupils up to GCSE in the latest league tables.

As a result of its “continuing drive for improvement”, the quality of pupils work was “often exceptional,” visiting inspectors reported.

As a school that had previously been rated good — in 2019 — Menorah High was not given grades this time but the latest evaluation “suggests that the school’s work may have improved significantly across all areas since the previous inspection,” Ofsted said. “The school’s next inspection will be a graded inspection.”

State schools no longer receive an overall headline grade but one is awarded in each of four categories.

Menorah pupils realised the “high expectations’ set by staff, Ofsted said. “Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities make exceptional progress through the curriculum and play a full part in the life of the school.”

Girls “value their learning and relish the many opportunities the school provides”, including creative activities.

Support for mental health and wellbeing was strong, while an “aspirational” career programme was available from year 7.

Staff were “determined every pupil should succeed and develop an independent voice”.

Girls enjoyed debating “sensitive and thought-provoking issues” and in history they applied their knowledge about historical events “such as the fight for women’s votes to explore modern-day protests|.

Menorah pupils had “a strong understanding of fundamental British values, including why equality and tolerance are so important,” Ofsted said.