FOUR Bromsgrove schools have struck gold by winning the highest possible award from the Arts Council of England.

North and South Bromsgrove High schools were both announced winners of the Artsmark Gold awards, along with Charford First and Sunfield Special schools. Tardebigge First School was awarded a silver gong. The announcement was made at the private viewing of the Voices of Visions exhibition held at Worcester Cathedral's cloisters last Thursday.

A total of 27 Artsmarks were given to schools across Worcestershire, more than any other local education authority in the country. They are given to schools who display a commitment to dance, art, drama, literature and music.

Staff at North Bromsgrove High were delighted to receive the award.

"We are proud not only of the high standard of our provision for the arts but also the excellent quality of the students' work evident in concerts, exhibitions and productions," said headteacher Clive Pemberton.

Steve Belinfante, chief arts inspector for Worcestershire, said: "It is absolutely incredible that the two high schools in Bromsgrove should both achieve Artsmark Gold.

"It just shows how committed they are to promoting the arts and they are an asset to the community."

Over at Sunfield Special School, in Woodman Lane, Clent, the celebrations continued.

"The arts play a central role in the life of Sunfield, both in the children's education, and our links with the community. The Artsmark Gold award acknowledges the quality of the arts programme here at Sunfield," said Barry Carpenter, the school's principal.

He added: "Arts are increasingly the medium through which we enrich the learning experiences of our children, all of whom have significant learning disabilities."

Work by all the winners is part of the Voices of Visions display which runs at the cathedral until June 30.