Inspectors have given Bath's King Edward's School an outstanding rating.

A team from the Independent Schools Inspectorate concluded that the school in North Road was "superbly suited to the demands of education in a modern setting" and "outstandingly successful in meeting its aims".

The report, based on a visit to the school in late November, praises the excellent relationships between staff and pupils and pastoral care described as of an outstanding quality.

The inspectors say the excellent range and quality of extra-curricular activities, including sport, music, drama and outdoor pursuits, combined with outstanding development of pupils' spiritual, moral, social and cultural awareness and excellent links with the community, meant the school provided "a rich educational experience that enables pupils of all abilities and interests to find success and personal achievement".

Since the last inspection in 2002, there has been significant investment in ICT, the development of a £3 million teaching block and the refurbishment of existing older buildings.

Recently-appointed head Martin Boden said: "I am thrilled that the school has emerged with such distinction.

"Inspectors commented frequently and most positively on the expertise and commitment of both teaching and support staff, on the warmth and friendliness of relationships at all levels within the school community, on the outstanding levels of achievement and success in all areas and also on the happy, welcoming and caring atmosphere which is a hallmark of the school."

The inspectors also praised the school's pre-prep and junior sections.

The report says: "The high levels of achievement recorded across so many different disciplines reflect the success of the school in pursuing excellence for its pupils across a wide range of activities.

"The development of pupils' spiritual, moral, social and cultural awareness is outstanding.

"They combine confidence and a strong sense of self-worth with concern and care for others.

"Their spiritual development is nurtured by a well-developed sense of community, by supportive relationships and by the vital contribution of their tutors."

Last year, an Ofsted inspection of the nursery provision at King Edward's Pre-Prep also rated its early years department as outstanding.