LONGER lessons at a Darwen school have been given the thumbs up by pupils, according to the academy’s new head.

When Darwen Vale High School announced the changes last term it sparked protest from some parents and students who feared it would put more pressure on staff and pupils.

But after extensive consultation principal Matthew Little, who took over this term, said the new structure is working well.

In an interview with the Lancashire Telegraph, Mr Little said: “I want us to be an outstanding academy, providing an outstanding education.

“To do this we will make sure we have a clear plan for the future with the motto of aiming high and setting high targets for student attainment.

“We will be working hard to achieve those targets while still providing that caring environment.

“The caring ethos is really important. It is something Vale is really strong on.”

Mr Little said he wants students to be active members of the community.

He said: “It is about creating citizens who are happy, successful and who are giving something back.”

The school has raised thousands of pounds for charity over the year including £28,000 for Derian House Children’s Hospice while also donating three quarters of a tonne of food for food banks last year.

A lot of the money came from sponsorship for weekly circuit training sessions for staff and students organised by vice principal Wayne Hartley.

“I am only just beginning to appreciate how much the school does,” Mr Little said.

“During the summer term two year seven girls raised £550 for charity Maddi’s Butterflies by organising a talent show.

“They did all of it by themselves.”

Speaking of changes made to the school day which mean longer lessons and a shorter lunch break, he said: “There has been a positive reception from students, staff and parents.

“We explained it is in the interest of making sure students achieve in line with their prior attainment.

“We increased curriculum time, which is about students spending time in the classroom learning.

“It is about making sure they are adequately prepared for the future.

“We met with a lot of parents during the consultation which was right.”

He added they are expecting an Ofsted inspection by Christmas. The school was lasted rated inadequate in 2013 but has been praised for making improvements since.