Ofsted inspectors recently visited the Grindleton-based school and gave top marks on a variety of key areas.

The report commended the school on the balance it struck between promoting academic achievement and the development of other life skills amongst its pupil; pointing out the school's specialist status in performing arts as underpinning the development of many of these skills.

The report stated: "The most striking feature about this school is the pervading sense of community and fellowship that comes about from teachers knowing their pupils so extremely well.

"Consequently pupils flourish and develop into mature, articulate and confident young adults."

Delighted with the excellent report, Bowland High's headteacher Mr Stephen Cox said: "Some schools capitalise on their 21st century buildings, their high-tech classrooms or their sprawling campuses. At Bowland we capitalise on knowing our youngsters extremely well."

He went on to say thank you to all the pupils, staff and parents/carers for their support in making Bowland High the exceptional school that it is.

"The pupils, staff and wider school community have worked tirelessly to improve and further develop the school and it is heartening that this is recognised in such a glowing report," he added.

"I am tremendously proud of the report as it encapsulates some of our great achievements, but also supports the school in the areas in which we will continue to strive for excellence."

"Which headteacher would not be proud of the opening line of the report, which read 'Bowland High School is an outstanding school that provides the highest quality of education and care for its pupils'."