From David Hutchings, Exeter 382594, February 28, 2008

BIDEFORD COLLEGE has been named as one of the most improved secondary schools in the country.

New figures published by the Government today show Bideford College has made significant improvements in the Key Stage 3 exams taken by 14-year-old students.

Over the past four years, from 2004 to 2007, the school's aggregate score for the exams in English, maths and science has risen from 177 out of 300 to 237.

This places Bideford joint 21st nationally in the new table of most improved secondary schools published by the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

Bideford is also in the top 20 per cent of schools nationally based on the progress made from Year 7 to Year 9.

Bideford Principal, Veronica Matthews, said: "Standards are above the national averages in all of our core subjects - English, maths and science - at KS3.

"Our results have improved markedly over the past three years.

"This is the result of a very clear focus on teaching and learning resulting from national strategy developments and the combined efforts of staff and students to improve the results achieved by students at the college.

"The results are exceptional and we are very proud of what has been achieved."

Devon's executive councillor for children's services, John Smith, said: "This is excellent news for Bideford College as we begin work on the school's ambitious new buildings."

"I would particularly like to thank Veronica Matthews and her team for the leadership they have provided for the school and all the staff and students for their hard work."

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