Branksome School, Darlington, has received a second school achievement award from the Department of Education and Skills.

The school improved GCSE results by eight per cent last year.

Headteacher Linda Hartley said all staff had worked hard to overcome many pressures, including a heavy workload.

She said: "It is always very pleasing to have our hard work, good practice and excellent achievement recognised nationally, and even more pleasing that this is for the second year running."