THE Chantry School has been named in society magazine Tatler’s top 20 state schools in the country for 2018.

Headteacher Andy Dickenson was surprised and pleased in equal measure to find the Martley school – which boasts Game of Thrones actor Kit Harrington as a former pupil – listed by the prestigious publication.

Dr Dickenson said: “Schools are always being judged, by OFSTED, obviously, but also by the kids who come here every day and their parents as well. I like to think this [the Tatler recognition] has come through word-of-mouth.

“The word I like to use when describing our teaching is memorable. We provide memorable education.”

There has been much to shout about recently, including World Challenge trips around the globe and thriving foreign exchanges – including a very successful China trip for Year 9 pupils.

While ongoing £2.25m building works will allow for 30 extra pupils to enrol per year from this September.

“We aim to make the educational experience of our young people memorable, and we are blessed with an extremely hard-working staff who go beyond what might be ordinarily expected of them to provide some great extra-curricular opportunities,” he added.