LONGLEY School has won an Artsmark Silver Award for its commitment to the arts.

Pupils Martin Walker and Megan Ireland, both 15, went with staff to West Yorkshire Playhouse in Leeds to receive the Arts Council England award.

The scheme encourages schools to work in partnership with artists and art organisations.

It recognises schools that show a commitment to all art forms from drama to music, design, literature, dance and sculpture.

Head teacher Phil Gibbins said:

"It is a tremendous boost to the school for the Arts Council to recognise the school's progressive, well-balanced arts programme.

"It is a fitting reward for the hard work of pupils and staff, especially the head of art, Yvonne Talbot."

Pupils have been involved in a workshop with local photographer Andrew Sanderson and artist Debbie George.

Youngsters studied the work of the artist Kandinsky and designed a mural in the school's common room.