SCHOOL REPORT: Ribblesdale is a mixed school, with pupils from the ages of 11 to 16.

There is scope to participate in vocational subjects such as Leisure and Tourism, and all pupils will gain a 'Key Skills' accreditation by the end of year 11.

Ribblesdale is a recognised Technology College Specialist School and there is an obvious focus on raising the levels of ICT competence throughout the whole school, including the staff.

HISTORY LESSON: Ribblesdale became a Specialist Technology School from September 1 1999 and because of the school's size it has been able to take around 1,220 students on board.

A new teaching block was opened in September 2002 which boasts a ICT suite with 30 PCs, and the size of the school enables pupils from Partner Primary Schools, and members of the community, to use the facilities.

SOMETHING TO BRAG ABOUT?: The last inspection at Ribblesdale revealed that the standard of pupils' work is well above the national average and the additions made to the curriculum were praised highly. The links between business and industry provide opportunity for pupils to participate in work experience, and work visits, putting their technology skills into practice in the real world.

STAR PUPILS: At Ribblesdale all pupils, regardless of race or gender, are encouraged to participate in the varied activities and schemes offered by the school.

It is obvious the children have responded to the strong leadership and varied curriculum as our pupil's behaviour is excellent and is, certainly, one of the school's major strengths.

WHAT ABOUT THE PARENTS?: Ribblesdale regards parent involvement as extremely important.

We provide a contract for parents to sign which sets out our mutual expectations and parents are encouraged to contact the school if they have any concerns or worries.

Similarly the parents are alerted at an early stage if we feel there is any cause for concern.

There is also a School Association at Ribblesdale, run by parents and staff, which raises money to enable the students to participate in extra curricular activities.

WHAT WOULD YOU DO WITH A £100,000 WINDFALL?: Either purchase new equipment or start refurbishment projects. At the moment we are looking to refurbish toilet facilities, throughout the school.