A private secondary school has been recognised by a national newspaper as the top independent school in the country.

St Albans High School for Girls was awarded The Sunday Times Independent Secondary School of the Year 2015-16, beating dozens of other schools to the prestigious accolade.

The long-standing newspaper school guide, The Sunday Times Parent Power, recognises the country’s top-achieving schools and the girls’ school won the accolade following a successful year. Head Jenny Brown, who has only been at the school for a year, said: “This school has long been a gem in this wonderful city and I am delighted that it has now been recognised as one of the country’s best schools.

“We want pupils to take risks, to love learning, and most of all, to enjoy their time here.

“The Sunday Times award recognises how we grow girls’ intellectual and social confidence through an imaginative curriculum and extra-curricular provision. Above all, girls have a lot of fun here.”

The award was given for excellence in all areas of the school, including adventurous opportunities within and beyond the curriculum.

Alistair McCall, editor of The Sunday Times Schools Guide, said: “St Albans High School for Girls has had a stellar year.

“Its outstanding examination results speak for themselves and lift the school into our top 20 independent schools in Britain.

“What sets the school apart is that it achieves all of this while giving space for the girls to grow. Their successes in all arenas are acknowledged and applauded, and the extensive range of extra-curricular activities ensures they leave the school not just well qualified, but well-rounded too.”