A HEADTEACHER has praised the dedication and hard work of students and staff after his school was praised for its academic achievement. Each year between 2006 and 2008

A HEADTEACHER has praised the dedication and hard work of students and staff after his school was praised for its academic achievement.

Each year between 2006 and 2008 Onslow St Audrey's School has made a 10 per cent improvement in the number of pupils achieving five or more GCSE grades at A* to C.

Paul Meredith said one of the major catalysts for the Hatfield school's improvement was being awarded the business and enterprise specialist college status in 2006.

After being commemorated at an awards ceremony in February, the Old Rectory Drive establishment was dubbed by the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust as one of the most improved schools in the country.

A delighted Mr Meredith told the WHT: "The hard work of students and staff has transformed the school.

"We have focused closely on improving the quality of teaching and learning through staff training, close monitoring of lessons and student attainment.

"We have also worked on raising the aspirations of students, so that now there is a clear expectation that college, university, training or apprenticeships follow school."

Head girl Anna Willis said she is "proud" to attend Onslow St Audrey's.

She added: "There has always been a wonderful community atmosphere but the continual improvement in examination results makes me proud to attend Onslow.

"Having encouragement from staff has really driven me to aim higher."

Paul Lee, deputy head boy, said: "Since I joined the school in 2002 I have seen dramatic improvements in teaching.

"The staff care deeply about standards and about us as students, and this is reflected by our improved results year on year."

Elizabeth Reid, chief executive, of the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust, congratulated specialist schools for their success in raising GCSE results.

She said: "If every young person is to receive a world class education then we must set world class standards that challenge every school to improve year on year.