PUPILS and staff at Birchensale Middle School are celebrating after it was announced they had received their prestigious Artsmark award.

Art Council England's Artsmark recognises schools that demonstrate a commitment to providing opportunities for pupils across all art forms, from drama to music, design to literature and dance to sculpture.

The scheme also encourages schools to work in partnership with artists and arts organisations.

Birchensale headteacher Ingrid Bridgewater said: "I'm delighted the Arts Council has recognised our school's progressive, well-balanced arts education programme, which enables parents and students to work with local artists.

"There is a huge amount of arts activities going on here.

"For example, some of our pupils attended a summer school working with Richard Taylor, a sculptor and coppersmith, to produce a piece of work which is now on display at the front of the school.

"Others have attended the World Music Event at the Winterbourne Gardens in Birmingham."

She added: "A big thank you to all staff for their hard work in achieving this award."

Sir Christopher Frayling, Arts Council England chairman, said: "Every young person should have a basic entitlement to participate in, and experience the arts.

"The schools which received the Artsmark last week display a commitment to providing young people with a wide range of arts activities we believe all schools should strive for."