Ellesmere College has been awarded the accolade of Artsmark Gold to reflect the outstanding provision across all the Arts at the school. Gold award status shows that the school is dedicated to teaching in the arts and culture and offers lots of opportunities for pupils.

Artsmark is Arts Council England's flagship programme, which enables schools and other organisations to evaluate, strengthen, and celebrate their arts and cultural provision. Artsmark is delivered by Trinity College London.

Director of Music, Tony Coupe, who helped co-ordinate the school's bid for the award said: "'I'm delighted that Ellesmere College's dynamic arts education offer has been nationally recognised. Holding Artsmark status means we are leading the way in providing children and young people with excellent arts and cultural experiences."

Ellesmere College was praised for the arts work it shares with the local community and for the high quality of arts education in all the key art subjects, including dance and media technology. The assessment also highlighted that the school nurtures artistic talent in all pupils and encourages progression towards professional success in the arts. Leadership possibilities for pupils within the arts and the impact on pupil's well-being were also highlighted.

Year 12 pupil Lily Wilson said: "I love performing and singing at all the events that are arranged throughout the year, both at the school and in competitions. You really do get plenty of opportunities."

Fellow Year 12 pupil Jo Jameson said the school's arts provision had helped him thrive. "There're so many aspects to drama, far more than meets the eye. I want to be as good as I can be and I think it's great to have committed and enthusiastic staff who provide so many opportunities."

The Headmaster, Brendan Wignall, said: "It's really important that all of the hard work from staff and pupils is recognised. A school that just focuses on the academic side is only half a school. We have felt for some time now that Ellesmere's provision across all the Arts - dance, drama, music, creative writing, and visual art - has been of the very highest quality, and to have this affirmed by Arts Council England is a very proud moment for the College."