STUDENTS are celebrating after their school was ranked among the best ten per cent in the country.

Risedale Sports and Community College, at Hipswell, Catterick Garrison, has been lauded for being one of the best in the country for progress at GCSE.

The Schools, Students and Teachers Network say it is leading the field nationally for the value it adds to students’ achievements at GCSE.

And it has won an SSAT Educational Outcomes Award by being in the top 10 per cent of schools nationally for progress made by pupils between key stage 2 at primary school and GCSEs at the age of 16.

Associate principal John Kelly said: “I am absolutely thrilled that all of the work of staff, students, governors and families has been recognised nationally.

“By working so closely together we are managing to transform students’ lives ensuring the very best outcomes and opportunities are created for our young people.”

SSAT chief executive Sue Williamson added: “Risedale Sports and Community College should be congratulated for its exceptional achievement. They have proved themselves to be leading the field in improving GCSE outcomes for their students.

“These results are testament to the commitment and hard work of the students, teachers and leadership team.”