THE heads of three schools in St Austell, which have received glowing reports from Ofsted inspectors, have received further praise.

Penrice Academy head Tanya Coleman, Poltair School headteacher Richard Cardigan and Mount Charles School headteacher Sarah Simpson have received plaudits from MP Noah Law.

Earlier this year, Penrice Academy was judged as outstanding by Ofsted, while Poltair School and Mount Charles School were rated as good with a number of outstanding features. The two secondary schools and the primary school all come under the Cornwall Education Learning Trust (CELT).

The headteachers came together at Cornwall College St Austell where they were joined by the head of the college campus, David Atkinson-Beaumont, and CELT representatives.

Mr Law, the Labour MP for St Austell and Newquay, said: “The entire team of teachers, staff, parents and, most importantly – students, should be very proud.

“It is an absolute privilege for St Austell to have such outstanding schools and colleges, which are not only building young people’s futures, but also supporting local jobs and prosperity, which is one of my election pledges.

“This is about vision. These high standards, complemented by Cornwall College’s world-class apprenticeship offering in recent years – including the opening of a local Green Construction Skills Centre – will create exactly the workforce we need to deliver critical homes and infrastructure long into the future.”

A college spokesperson said: “Recent Ofsted inspections show that education in St Austell is excellent and provides children and young people with exceptional educational experiences.

“The town now boasts multiple Ofsted outstanding education providers and plenty who have many outstanding features.

“For Progress-8, both St Austell secondary schools are in the top three in Cornwall, making St Austell the town where students make the most progress during their time in secondary education in Cornwall.

“CELT is dedicated to providing high-quality education and support to all pupils and students, focused on ensuring those from disadvantaged backgrounds have the resources and opportunities to excel.”

David Atkinson-Beaumont said: “Students, parents, businesses and local stakeholders can be confident we are transforming lives though education and helping drive economic growth in St Austell.”

Sarah Simpson said Mount Charles School was “dedicated to providing an exceptional education and unwavering commitment to every pupil.

“In our recent Ofsted report, inspectors recognised our approach to fostering a sense of belonging lies at the heart of the school’s work and this is evident in the excellent, trusting relationships that staff build with the families we serve. They confirmed what we see every day in our classrooms, that education in St Austell is thriving and delivering excellent experiences for all young people. We give all pupils the chance to thrive, reach their full potential and, ultimately, the opportunity to make life choices.”

Richard Cardigan said that at Poltair School there is a “particular focus on ensuring that those from disadvantaged backgrounds have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.

“We're incredibly proud that, for Progress-8, both secondary schools in St Austell rank in the top three in Cornwall.”