Rutlish School, in Merton Park, is set at the bottom of a leafy lane surrounded by the extensive grounds of the John Innes estate.

Its exterior gives the impression of being a country house and inside its authentic wooden balustrades and spiral staircase exude a sense of history.

The school is a non-selective, comprehensive for boys aged 12 to 16, housed in a listed building built in 1879, the home of 19th century horticulturalist John Innes.

There are currently 800 boys, a number expected to rise to 1,200 by 2005 when the school is extended next September to take pupils from the age of 11.

Pupils whose first language is not English can take an exam at the school in their mother tongue, whether in Spanish, Turkish, Urdu, Bengali or Cantonese.

Headteacher Karen Bastick-Styles said the establishment, which has one of the biggest computer suites in Merton, covers a complete spectrum of abilities.

It is truly comprehensive with pupils of all capabilities and has a good cultural mix with many after-school clubs.

We want the boys to develop the confidence to achieve more than they thought they were capable.

We aim to ensure they are not just academically successful, but also able to communicate well socially, bringing out the best of their abilities in all ways.

Novelist Will Self has held workshops on creative writing with year 10 and 11 boys and pop star Tom Robinson has led music workshops.

By.Yvonne Gordon