THERE was more than just one reason to celebrate at St Nicholas' High School last week.

Not only did the school hold a succesful annual prize-giving evening on Thursday, but it also received a School Achievement Award for Excellence from the DfEE.

The award is worth over £26,000 and was presented to the school because of its sustained improvement over the past three years.

Speaking at the prize-giving, headteacher Gerard Boyle reflected on the school's successes over the past year, not only academic, but also sporting, community and charity achievements.

"I think that you can appreciate something of the pace of life which has been experienced and the sense of achievement which we all share at St Nicholas' following a year which was so memorable in so many ways," he said.

"So much of what I have had to say has only been achievable because of the dedicated hard work of so many people, not least the students themselves, but a successful school is based on high quality teamwork.

"I would like to go on record to publicly acknowledge the contribution made by all the staff of the school, teaching and non-teaching, including those who left at summer - their dedicated commitment and good humour are cornerstones of our society."

Mr Boyle went on to thank The Friends of St Nicholas, members of the local clergy and school governors for their on-going support.

A record number of awards and certificates were also handed out during the ceremony, including a new award which was donated by the Vale Royal Lions and presented to St Nicholas' pupil David Hopley for service to the community.