The John Fisher School is unlike any other in Sutton in that it is situated on the border with Croydon and an overwhelming number of its pupils live outside the borough.

But this is not the only distinctive fact about the voluntary aided school in Peaks Hill in Purley.

It has gained national acclaim for its sporting triumphs, especially in the field of rugby, winning the national schools seven aside rugby tournament in 1997 and 1998.

Headteacher Robin Gregory is proud to mention that two former pupils are currently playing in Australia, in the England under 21 squad.

He feels rugby plays an important part in nurturing team support, a competitive ethos and commitment, and has plans for The John Fisher School to become a sports college.

This becomes clear by viewing the sports facilities.

In the immediate grounds there is an athletics track, a cricket pitch and two rugby pitches, while most extra curricular games are practised in the nearby 22 acre sports field.

Mr Gregory has been head since 1993 and believes that the schools major strength is the friendship that exists between staff and pupils.

He says: The thing which makes it special is the integrated community with everyone supporting each other. We are a totally harmonious community. Most people who come to The John Fisher School are struck by our relationships within the school. And we do have high expectations about behaviour.

He adds that the reason why relationships are so solid between staff and pupils is because they know each other on many different levels, through sport and in the classroom, and this promotes a warm atmosphere.

Mr Gregory continued: We are proudly comprehensive, a genuine all ability school, and we get impressive results.

Another unusual feature about the school is the chapel which is a focal point and is used for masses, benediction and stations of the cross.

Religion is the main priority, and the school has links with several nearby churches, enjoying a prominent status in the local Catholic community.

The school was founded in 1929 by Archbishop Amigo, Archbishop of Southwark. Mr Gregory says this religious influence has been retained.

It was why the school was founded. It underpins the ethos of the school and is a core part of the curriculum. Every boy does religious studies and theology is an important A level subject.

Boys can become part of the faith society which meets every Friday. Other after school clubs exist for boys interested in athletics, choir and chess.

If theres one thing Mr Gregory wants to instil in the 930 pupils, its that they do their best: We want boys to leave the school saying Ive done my best and Ive given my best.