The happiest secondary schools in Southampton have been ranked by Ofsted.

It comes after The Sunday Times looked at Parent View analysis, surveys that parents fill out on Ofsted's website about their children's schools, between 2020 and 2025.

In Southampton alone, both Cantell School and St Anne’s Catholic School topped the list as the city’s happiest secondary schools, with 94 per cent of parents saying their children were happy at both schools in 2020-2025.

Saint George Catholic Voluntary Aided College Southampton came third in the Ofsted rankings with Bitterne Park School and Oasis Academy Sholing also finishing in the top five for the city.

In a statement, Harry Kutty, headteacher of Cantell School, said he was “delighted” the school was recognised as one of the happiest in the region.

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He said: “Whilst we celebrate this honour, it’s important to recognise that all schools in Southampton strive to create environments where students feel happy, safe, and comfortable.  

“I am really proud of the work we all do together, for the benefit of the young people in our care. We continue to learn from others, grow and develop, leaving no stone unturned to be the best we can be for the Cantell Family.”

He added: “Our focus is not on league tables or statistics; rather, we are committed to fostering a caring, supportive and enriching experience for our young people. We aim to equip them with the knowledge, skills and confidence to lead happy and successful lives both now and in the future.”

For schools overseen by Hampshire County Council, Thornden School in Chandler’s Ford finished fifth with 91 per cent of parents saying their children were happy at the school.

Thornden School headteacher, Caroline Lowing, commented “we pride ourselves on being a happy school and students help each other to stay safe, to learn and to overcome obstacles.”

She added: “We care for our students – this is the responsibility of every member of staff.

“We have a well-used Wellbeing Den that students can go to if they have worries or concerns and safeguarding is at the very heart of everything that we do.”