Secondary School of the Year

SCHOOL – Pleckgate High School

BASED – Pleckgate Road, Blackburn

NUMBER OF PUPILS – 1,100

SCHOOL MISSION/VISION – Learn, Enjoy, Succeed

EVERY year our judges are impressed by the improving exam results in our schools in East Lancashire.

Pleckgate High School is yet another example, having achieved its best ever set of GCSE results last year with 58 per cent of pupils gaining five or more A*-C grades – putting it among the top five (compared to similar schools) in the UK.

But what really made the school stand out in this category, sponsored by Myerscough College, was its prominent role in the local community.

Last year the pupils raised more than £10,000 for a variety of charities and this year they are set to exceed that figure.

The school, which became an academy in February, is also a leader in using technology as a teaching aid with every student given a mini IPad.

Head teacher Mark Cocker, who started in January, said: “It’s important we embrace the modern era and teaching has changed – it’s not about a teacher standing in front of the class, although obviously that is part of it, but more about students investigating ideas and thinking for themselves under guidance.

“The GCSE results, which are the best in the school’s history, are testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone concerned.

“To be in the top five in the country, as compared to similar schools, is a great achievement for Pleckgate.”

He said he saw the school’s potential immediately.

“It’s important to have a clear vision and to create the correct environment where the students and the staff can thrive and be happy,” he added.

“I’m proud to be head teacher. There is a strong group of dedicated and committed staff here who are willing to go that extra mile while the students are all keen to learn.

“We are on a journey to outstanding and awards like this recognise the giant strides we are making.”