RUNCORN’S top performing and only Ofsted-rated ‘outstanding’ secondary school has opened a new sixth form.

It is the first time students at The Heath have been able to continue their education after the age of 16.

Principal Jamie Jardine said: “The real backbone to our sixth form is that we know our students and they know us. We can offer pastoral support in an environment that is encouraging and one where students can achieve.

“Our students come in business dress so they are prepared for work.”

So far 35 have enrolled. He hopes numbers will rise to 60 in the coming months.

Sixth-formers will have their own independent centre when the entire school is re-built.

Construction of a multi-million pound building in Clifton Road is set to start early in 2015 and will take 18 months to two years to complete.

Mr Jardine said: “It is very exciting. We can’t wait.

“We will have a completely brand new school, state-of-the-art technology, dance and drama studios, a sports and community centre, dining terrace and refectory, specialist workshops, tennis courts, multi use games and an amphitheatre.”

He said the school is proud of achieving 65 per cent A* to C GCSEs including English and Maths.

Mr Jardine added: “It is not only our excellent results we are proud of. We have achieved Artsmark gold award, youth sports trust silver partner, dyslexia quality mark and possibly most prestigious of all being awarded inclusion quality mark flagship status.

“This accolade recognises that all students receive a truly inclusive education that embraces not only academic excellence but also opportunity throughout the school.

“This is evident in our extensive extra curricular programme, outreach work and close partnerships with The Heath Business Park.”