The Leigh University Technical College (UTC) in Dartford has been awarded ‘good with outstanding features’ in its first Ofsted report since opening in 2014.

Inspectors visited the Brunel Way school, which caters for 14-19-year-olds specialising in engineering and computer sciences, last month.

Principal Steve Leahey said: “Everyone connected to The Leigh UTC is immensely proud.

“We have shown already we are the best performing UTC in the country and it was heart-warming to know we were within a whisker of the outstanding judgement.”

Ofsted commended the professional ethos of school that sees students attend from 8.30am to 5pm.

Mr Leahey said: “We promote a business-like environment with business length days, business dress.”

"It was heart-warming to know we were within a whisker of the outstanding judgement,” principal Steve Leahey

He said part of their success came from entering national competitions to challenge students, such as a Royal Navy competition students won last Thursday.

Some 13 youngsters entered the HMS Sultan UTC Amphibious Challenge to design, test and build a remote controlled amphibious vehicle, winning the overall prize in the 16-18 category.

Mr Leahey said: “This builds teamwork and leadership skills in the students that will be required in their future careers.”

Leigh UTC is also opening a new Inspiration Academy for key stage three pupils, which starts taking pupils in September.

The new school, which has already filled its 120 places, focuses on offering a science, technology, engineering and mathematics curriculum.