FROM the moment you walk through the door at Talbot Heath School it's abundantly clear there's something very special about it.

Tradition, heritage and high standards are evident everywhere but the school also has a buzz about it which lets you know that it's very much at the forefront of teaching and learning.

Students are exceptionally polite, immaculately turned out and respectful - but each and every one also has a twinkle in her eye that says: "Don't mess with me."

Results at the school speak for themselves.

Nearly three quarters of A levels were passed at grades A*-B last year with more than half of all GCSE grades at A* or A.

But a chat with head teacher Angharad Holloway soon reveals an equal level of pride in achievements in sport, art, music and drama and perhaps even more pride in the fact that students have the freedom to be themselves and to express themselves.

On a beautiful site near Bournemouth town centre, Talbot Heath has 550 students between the ages of three and 18, 40 or whom are boarders from as far afield as China, Russia, France and Spain.

Demand for places is high with a waiting list already in place for next year and girls travel from all over Dorset and from Hampshire.

Its acclaimed tennis academy produces many a national champion and the top-notch facilities would normally only be seen in a much larger school or a university.

Mrs Holloway said she has tried to maintain a delicate balance since taking the helm.

"I wanted to keep the best we had - the heritage, standards and reputation of the school - and modernise in terms of teaching and learning and the facilities we offer.

"There is something quite special about the environment here. The girls feel self-assured and empowered, it is a positive learning environment."

There are a maximum of 20 girls in each class, with some smaller groups.

"The level of attainment is incredible with the vast majority of students going to university" added Mrs Holloway.

But she was keen to stress that university is not the only route encouraged. "They can go wherever they want to - it is not a one-size-fits-all school.

"There is very little peer pressure here and the students don't have to look or be a certain way. They can be themselves."

Pupils of all ages work together for initiatives across the school and digital technology is at the forefront of modern learning.

Talbot Heath was founded in 1886 by Mary Broad with the aim of providing a first class liberal education for girls, an aim that holds true today. A committed social reformer and devoted Christian, Miss Broad wished to provide a rigorous education with high academic standards, while developing a genuine love of life and learning in her pupils.