EXTRA staff and resources for pupils have helped a North-East school become one of the most improved in the country.

In today's tables, 42 per cent of pupils at Grangefield School, Stockton, have achieved five GCSEs at A to C grades, up from 35 per cent in 1999.

The school has had specialist technology status since 1999, which has helped it to get funding for one computer to every four pupils - above the national target.

Extra support staff for teachers have been employed and the school runs coursework and revision schools during the holidays.

In October, a city learning centre was opened featuring a training room for 30 pupils, a conference suite which can seat 120 people, projectors, DVD and video conferencing equipment.

Headteacher Michael Hill said the GCSE results were down to "a lot of hard work by the kids, parents and staff".

The school was among several in the region achieving top accolades. Brierton Community School, Hartlepool, a specialist sports college, saw its GCSE A to C rate increase from 29 per cent in 1999 to 35 per cent last year.