�A Hornchurch school is in the top 10 per cent of most improved schools in the country.

The Albany School was given recognition for the accolade from the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust (SSAT) for the improvements made in school.

It is also recognised that the school’s GCSE results have improved by 19 per cent in the last three years.

‘Fantastic’

The school said it introduced a new curriculum for Year 7 student three years ago, which focused more on skills, cross-curricular and theme based.

Gary Wimbush, assistant headteacher at the school, said: “It has proven to be very popular with the students, parents and staff, and the standard of work produced by the students has risen greatly.

“During a recent visit an Ofsted inspector noted that the students were very motivated and engaged in all the activities set and that the levels of literacy were impressive in all areas.

“He spoke to students about the curriculum and they told him that they felt challenged and stimulated by the tasks set, and that they were making very good progress.”

He added that the curriculum changes have led to the improvement in GCSE attainment across the school and with a focus on teaching and learning students are enjoying lessons and pushing themselves further each year.

“The recognition by the SSAT is absolutely fantastic for staff and students,” Mr Wimbush said.

“Their hard work, effort and dedication are a credit to the school.”

Sue Williamson, chief executive of the SSAT, said: “The Albany School should be congratulated for their stunning achievement in improving their GCSE results.

“The Albany School has proved itself to be one of the best schools in the country at improving GCSE outcomes for their students.

“There is plenty that other schools could learn from The Albany School’s success.

“These results are testament to the commitment and hard work of the students, teachers and leadership team and a vindication of their belief in high expectations, good teaching and ambition for every young person.”