"It was brilliant" was the verdict on the first day of term at Cokethorpe. In common with most schools, the summer holidays had seen a frenzy of activity, and the pupils returned to find reorganised and newly decorated teaching areas, including the Mansion House, and a suite of new computers.

The glorious sunshine made the parkland estate especially beautiful, and it is not difficult to see why (helped by a network of buses) pupils are willing to travel from such long distances every day. To add to this happy atmosphere, the school has just celebrated its best ever GCSE and A-level results.

Although the 600 boys and girls undoubtedly benefit (sometimes without realising it) from the remarkable setting, it is the people within it which makes the environment particularly special - the dedicated team of teachers and support staff, as well as the pupils themselves. Pupils are encouraged to think for themselves and unleash their imagination. This is a school where guidance, dedication and self-belief join forces to produce some spectacular results.