Loreto College swept the boards with Ofsted inspectors after being declared outstanding in all areas - a feat no other sixth form has achieved.

The Catholic college in Hulme was founded in 1851 by an order of nuns dating back to the 16th century.It currently teaches 1,800 students, the vast majority school-leavers studying A-levels.

A 10-strong inspection team scrutinised the college during visits in November and have now delivered their judgment
The report gives the college the top grade in each of 28 categories, the first to be outstanding in each area.

As well as praising lessons, the Ofsted inspector also applauded students' out-of-hours activities.