THE new school year certainly started in fine style at Fred Longworth High.

All connected with the Tyldesley school are still celebrating a sensational set of GCSE results and now the school has been given a seal of approval from education watchdogs.

The school has been labelled 'very good' by Ofsted officials who inspected it earlier this year -- an accolade enjoyed by less than 10 per cent of the nation's schools.

Inspectors said: "Fred Longworth High is a very good school. It achieves very high standards because the very skilled teaching develops very positive attitudes to learning."

Already Fred Longworth has gained prestigious Artsmark and Arts College Status and recognised for excellence by the Technology Colleges Trust.

Good provision

Ofsted scrutineers said: "It provides an excellent range and quality of extra curricular activities, including very good provision for the performing arts and sport.

"One of the most striking features of the learning seen was the enjoyment of the students in what they were doing.

"The quality of learning is very good because a high number of the students are well motivated in lessons."

Student's attitudes towards school were praised with inspectors noting pupils were 'keen to learn' and 'respond well in lessons' and headteacher Tony Colley and his team were praised for their leadership.

An understandably pleased Mr Colley said: "I am very proud of our achievements and more than pleased that Ofsted has recognised us with the accolade of a very good school.

"Great credit goes to all our staff, students and governors for their unstinting hard work, and teamwork, which is justifiably celebrated in this report."