The report was written by the Independent Schools Inspectorate and is the result of its findings during a four day visit in October 2008. A team of nine inspectors examined every aspect of the school - including its Early Years Foundation Stage, delivered by the Nursery and Reception class, its Prep School (Years 1 to 6), its Senior School (Years 7 to 11) and its Sixth Form (Years 12 and 13).

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) was deemed to be outstanding in every respect - including its effectiveness in providing for children's needs, the level of the children's achievement, each child's personal development, learning and development generally, the welfare provision and the Nursery and Reception's management and leadership.

One of the comments in the report stated that: 'The level of children's achievement is outstanding. Children are assessed on entry against the EFYS development criteria and are set appropriate targets for achievement, which sensitively address their individual needs. Detailed observations, carried out in a variety of ways, indicate that children make outstanding progress in achieving their targets early'.

The education provided in the rest of the school was also highly praised.

'The quality of teaching in both the prep and senior schools is good, with some outstanding examples of classroom practice,' said the report. 'The school fulfils its aim of providing personal encouragement and high quality teaching so that pupils develop their potential. The standard of teaching that was commended in the last report has been maintained. Teaching staff are well organised, knowledgeable and have excellent rapport with their classes. As a result, pupils of all abilities make good progress, enjoy their learning and are well prepared for higher education and their future careers.'

Just as important as academic achievement, Truro High's approach to pastoral care was also given the highest accolade.

'The quality of pastoral care and of provision for welfare, health and safety is outstanding, giving all pupils the opportunity to develop into mature and confident people.'

The school's newly refurbished boarding facilities were also commended: 'The overall quality of the new accommodation is outstanding. The younger pupils share dormitories and this is generally popular. Pupils continue to share dormitories until their senior years, when individual rooms are available and en-suite bathroom facilities enhance privacy. Boarding pupils are particularly well-served by the maintenance and cleaning staff and the quality of furnishings and decoration is excellent.'

Jane Abbotts, Truro High School's headmistress, said she and the rest of the staff and governors were delighted with the inspection's outcome. 'Since arriving here in September I have been hugely impressed by the commitment and dedication of everyone involved in making this school so successful,' she said. 'Our small class sizes, and the one-to-one relationships we nurture and develop, mean that we are able to bring out the best in every pupil - ensuring each girl explores and fulfils her own potential in a happy, caring environment.

'This is an excellent report and we are all very proud of its findings.'

The Inspection Report can be found on the Truro High School website at www.trurohigh.co.uk or, in early February, on the inspectorate's website at www.isi.net