TWO East Lancashire high schools have been named in the top 10 per cent in the country for progress up to GCSE level.

Haslingden High School and The Hollins Technology College, Accrington, have been recognised for improving predicted results from Year seven until pupils sit their GCSEs in year 11.

As a result, both schools have been highlighted by the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust.

The Specialist Schools and Academies Trust aims to raise levels of attainment in schools.

There are more than 5,000 schools that have joined the Trust.

Headteacher of the Hollins Lane, Accrington, school Steve Campbell said that it was a ‘superb’ acknowledgement of their hard work.

Mark Jackson, head of Haslingden High School said he was ‘extremely’ proud.

Mr Jackson said: “I am delighted that the achievements of our students have again been recognised at a national level.

“I am extremely proud of their exceptional performance. "Great credit must be given to our caring, committed staff as well as to the students themselves.”

Hollins headteacher Steve Campbell said: “It is wonderful to have our superb results acknowledged on a national basis.

"I am extremely proud of our outstanding year on year performance and the high quality, respectful and well educated young people that we turn out. Credit must go to the fantastic staff as well as the students themselves”.

Sue Williamson, chief executive of the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust said: “They are two of the best schools in the country at outperforming expectations for their pupils and improving their future prospects.”