PERSHORE High School has been complimented for offering its students a good edu-cation despite a lack of cash.

The support given to students in the school's sixth form was singled out for particular praise and bullying was described as rare.

However, the school was criticised for the inconsistency of its marking and target setting as well as how boring some of its lessons are.

The Office for Standards in Education gave the school the second highest mark out of four and said the school had improved since its last inspection six years ago.

Inspector Brian Cartwright made reference to the fact that Worcestershire schools get significantly less money than those in most areas of the country.

He said: "With limited resources relative to the national averages, the school delivers good value for money.

"A committed team of well qualified staff work hard to ensure that students achieve well both academically and personally."

Headteacher Clive Corbett said: "It is well known that schools in Worcestershire are underfunded. Any money we get is thrown into the classroom. What we don't want is

parents to think that youngsters are not getting the resources they need for learning, because this is certainly not the case.

"In the last financial year, we've cut back on a lot of maintenance of buildings.

"We'd love to be doing a lot more painting, but that's where we've made the cuts, to make sure that youngsters in the classroom don't suffer."

Commenting on the support to sixth formers, Mr Corbett said: "I think it's something that we pride ourselves on in the school generally.

"It comes down to the quality of staff who are providing that support. In the case of the sixth form it starts with its head, Rachel Coton, and the kind of attitude she has and the work she puts in, which permeates to all the staff that work with her."

He added that inconsis-tency in marking was something that the school had already recognised.

"We've already had a meeting and have got a strategy in place that's already been adopted," he said.

"This includes adopting a school-wide marking policy."

Pershore's sixth form meets the needs of its students well, who are very motivated, says the inspector.

He said: "Students participate fully in the rich activities programme, and also work as mentors to help younger pupils.

"Students are very committed to the school and are appreciative of the commitment of staff.

"Some teaching involves students in long periods of listening, with little involvement, and so does not always fully meet individual needs or inspire universal enjoyment among students.

"However, the commitment by students to succeed compensates for such moments."

Mr Corbett credits the high level of student motivation to the quality of teaching.

"Clearly, if they weren't enjoying what they were doing then they wouldn't be motivated," he said.

"It comes down to the quality of teaching and support and they respond magnificently."

Inspectors added the truancy rate was low, the school offered good sporting opportunities and behaviour was good.

The report continued: "Regular reports to parents are interviews with parents and students ensure good information and advice is on hand to guide students.

"In the sixth form, care, guidance and support is

outstanding, because the school knows each student really well and 'gives us fantastic support'.

"Underachieving students are swiftly identified and supported."