The report shows they have succeeded by putting pupils first, investing in staff and their communities, applying consistently strong values and expectations and providing rich opportunity for each student, encouraging them to fulfil their potential.

The schools share a number of common features. They all track pupils' progress against targets, doing everything possible to help them succeed and supporting them if they slip behind. They also give high priority to appointing effective teachers and providing continuous professional development.

Ofsted want to make sure tour stakeholders are aware of all the ways in which we are working with providers to raise standards and improve the lives of young people and learners. Sharing good practice gives providers and policymakers the opportunity to see what works � and makes a practical contribution to good services.

The 12 outstanding schools are: 

• Bartley Green School, a specialist technology and sports college in Birmingham 
• Challney High School for Boys and Community College, a specialist science and mathematics college in Luton 
• Greenwood Dale School, a specialist technology and arts college in Nottingham 
• Harton Technology College, a specialist technology, languages and applied learning school in South Tyneside 
• Lampton School, a specialist humanities college in Hounslow 
• Middleton Technology School, a specialist technology and applied learning school in Rochdale
• Morpeth School, a specialist arts college in Tower Hamlets 
• Plashet School, a specialist science college for girls in Newham
• Robert Clack School, a specialist science, mathematics and computing college in Barking and Dagenham 
• Rushey Mead School, a specialist sports and science college in Leicester 
• Seven Kings High School, a specialist science, technology and language college in Redbridge 
• Wood Green High School, a specialist sport, mathematics and computing college in Sandwell.

It is hoped that the report will be used as a discussion document by leaders and staff in secondary schools. You can find the report on the Ofsted website.

Ofsted is keen to hear what you think of this report and whether you plan to use the ideas within it to make improvements. Your feedback will also help improve future reports. To give Ofsted your comments, you are invited to complete a short questionnaire.

You can also find out more about good practice on Ofsted's Excellence Gateway.