WITH 550 members, ranging in age from three to 18, it seems slightly odd to describe Talbot Heath School as one big, happy family.

But thanks to its warm and welcoming atmosphere and close relationship between parents, pupils and teachers, that’s the one phrase that crops up time and time again as people try to explain the school’s success.

Tucked away on a 22-acre site in leafy Talbot Woods, the independent school recently celebrated its 125th anniversary. During that time it has built up a reputation for academic excellence and offering the widest possible range of extra-curricular activities.

And it has no intention of letting that reputation slip.

The school prides itself on a holistic approach to learning, where no child goes unnoticed but is instead encouraged to shine at whatever she may be good at.

Head of school Angharad Holloway said: “Both the girls and the staff really enjoy coming to school and that positive atmosphere is just underpinned in every part of the school, from kindergarten to upper sixth.

“That’s quite unusual, particularly in a secondary school when adolescence kicks in.

“To find my Year 9 and 10 pupils still really motivated is a testament to the fact that they are thriving.

“I’m also extremely proud of how caring and supportive they are of one another across the year groups.

“There’s a real sense of pride for their school.”

The school is primarily for day pupils but it has capacity for 40 boarders who live in a newly-refurbished block on the school grounds. There are around 15 pupils per class in the junior school and around 20 in the senior school. At GCSE and A level stage the class sizes are even smaller.

Recent exam results saw 90 per cent of girls achieving A* to B at A-level, with around 22 per cent getting top A* grades. At GCSE level, around 70 per cent got A* or A grades.

But the school is as proud of its sporting accolades, which include producing national finalists in 14 sports, being number one in the UK for tennis and national champions at both netball and badminton.

“The atmosphere is relaxed but it’s purposeful,” said Mrs Holloway. “There’s a very positive work ethos that permeates the whole school.

“It’s all about offering a holisitic education. To me that’s as important as exam success. I want them to have a real love of life and learning.

“I confidently say to parents that your child will thrive here, we will get the best out of them. That is not empty rhetoric, but a promise that we can deliver upon.

“Talbot Heath has great heritage and tradition but there’s also a vibrancy and dynamism to it.

“That is what gives it its unique character.”