Harborough’s Robert Smyth School, in Burnmill Road, found out last month that it had earned an Artsmark gold award from national development agency for the arts, Arts Council England.

Colin Dean, head teacher at Robert Smyth, said: “I’m delighted that Arts Council England has recognised the school’s dynamic arts education programme. Our students have really enjoyed working with a wide range of visiting artists, musicians and writers and I’d like to thank all our staff for their hard work in achieving this award.”

The gold award is the top achievement that can be given to a school by the Arts Council, which launched the Artsmark scheme nine years ago in a bid to promote art and raise standards in art education.

To achieve the gold standard, which lasts for three years, a school must dedicate a minimum of 15 per cent of its curricular teaching time to the arts.

Laura Dyer, executive director of the Arts Council’s East Midlands branch, said: “The award recognises Robert Smyth School’s passion for the arts and belief in the power of creativity.”