Good quality education has driven Gloucestershire to the top of an influential league table for parents. Alistair McCall, editor of the Sunday Times Power Schools Guide, compiled the list which looks at outstanding schools across the UK.

Grammar schools in Gloucester, which launched the city into the top 10, include Sir Thomas Rich's (54th), High School for Girls (73rd), Ribston Hall High School (203rd) and The Crypt School (390th).

Gloucestershire County Council cabinet member for Education, Paul McLain said, “The results had been achieved despite a shortage of funding. For decades, Gloucestershire schools have been near the bottom of a league table of the worst funded state schools. The Government has said it will pump an extra £3million in to them from 2015.” He added, “This shows the great work done by the schools, pupils and parents, and that’s recognised nationally.”

Matthew Morgan said, “I am obviously delighted to see Sir Thomas Rich’s feature towards the top of the league tables. At Sir Thomas Rich’s we are trying to achieve balance between the pursuit of excellent results for our young people and the sheer enjoyment of learning; balance between the classroom and all else we seek to do.” He emphasied, “We recognise that education is about more than mere achievement: it is about development. I would urge prospective parents to follow the advice that The Sunday Times gives on visiting schools when considering secondary education. There is nothing more important that taking a look for yourselves. We have Open Days coming up on 6 and 7 May this year so do come and visit us.”