Wade Deacon High School is celebrating after achieving World Class status – one of only 60 schools in the UK to have achieved this honour.

This prestigious award was secured following a rigorous process with the World Class schools assessment team in London conducting a full audit of all aspects of the school’s work.

The World Class Schools Quality Mark applies to the students not the school.

It is the new standard in education for schools who have already been rated outstanding by Ofsted inspectors.

The assessment was led and organised by students who had to demonstrate they were globally aware, confident and prepared for life in an international environment.

Pupils had to show they were highly literate scientifically, mathematically, technologically and culturally.

Assessors believe the calibre of the student proves the calibre of the school.

The final part of the process was a formal assessment day in Leeds where pupils Lucy Gregory, 13, Sarah Baldwin, 15, and Alex Williams, 15, worked alongside other competing schools to develop a formal presentation based on a complex design brief.

The trio came through with flying colours and received individual recognition and a certificate for their participation.

The school received its World Class status at a ceremony in Cambridge University on December 8.

Principal Simon Corner said: “This World Class status is so special for us because our bid was co-ordinated and led solely by our students.

“It shows their incredible commitment and calibre and I am so proud of each and every one of them.”

The status will now allow the school on Birchfield Road to work alongside other outstanding world class schools across the UK, sharing excellent practice and ensuring the highest quality learning outcomes for its students.

Accredited schools have to reaffirm their World Class status every two years.