Finest school buildings in the world

Inspectors from the Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference, the public schools' equivalent of Ofsted, also described Stonyhurst College as "wholesome, positive and distinguished".

Pupils were co-operative, altruistic and supportive of each other, as well as sensitive, loyal and friendly.

The top college, established in 1794, caters for pupils from a wide range of backgrounds.

About a quarter of its pupils are from the Ribble Valley, a further 50 per cent from the UK and a quarter from overseas.

But inspectors also said pupils whose first language wasn't English needed more help.

"Pupils are well-motivated and stimulated by their work to make good progress. As a result, examination results have improved in recent years. "Two-thirds of the teaching is strong in important areas and a quarter is sound. An impressive range of activities exploits pupil enthusiasm, staff expertise and the facilities available within the college," inspectors said.

"For most pupils the curriculum is broad and balanced, but the college must strengthen support for those for whom English is not a first language and consider the introduction of more practical courses at A-level," they added.

The inspectors praised the college's 2,000-acre woodland setting near Hurst Green in the Hodder Valley.

"The college buildings and their setting are as fine as those of any school in the world. Views from them and from surrounding playing fields makes an indelible impression on pupils which stays with them for life," they said.

Sporting achievement at the college, particularly in rugby, was also singled out, as was the quality of coaching and commitment by staff.

Peter Anwyl, the college's director of admissions, said staff were very pleased with the inspectors' findings.

"We are particularly pleased that they have responded to the uniqueness and specialness of our school," he said.

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