THE Bewdley School was declared the winner of this year’s Secondary School of the Year award.

The judges were not only looking for academic achievement, they also wanted the entries to demonstrate innovation, imagination and efforts to develop young people in ways that go beyond the league tables.

These awards celebrate schools that go the extra mile to make a difference to the lives of their pupils, and the judges felt that Bewdley School certainly did that.

New uniforms, new buildings and a focused ethos at all levels have helped the school, in Stourport Road, to thrive.

Headteacher, Dave Hadley-Pryce from The Bewdley School said: “Looking at the field we were up against, it is really special to win this award and we are truly humbled.

“Thank you to our parent body for all their support.”

Mr Hadley-Pryce added: “We are very fortunate in Bewdley to have a culturally active and supportive community and an exceptional staff who will go above and beyond to work with them.

“I am delighted and touched that our exceptional staff have been recognised in this way by our lovely school community.”

The award was sponsored by Energy and Utilities Alliance.

In the original nomination form, father-of-three, Henry Price had set out what makes the school a special place.

He said: “Bewdley goes above and beyond to encourage their students to succeed.

“Bewdley has pushed their school identity and ethos to the next level, choosing to stay away from conventional pressures and focus on the success and ambition of their students.”