MILL Green School, in Newton, is celebrating after gaining an Artsmark Silver Award.

The national award is presented to schools that demonstrate commitment to developing the arts - such as drama, music, design, literature, dance and sculpture.

Colin Myers, head teacher at Mill Green, said: "I am delighted that the Arts Council has recognised our progressive arts education programme, which enables pupils to engage in the arts and work with artists.

"There is a huge amount of arts activity going on at this all-age special school and everyone is encouraged to play their part at their level of activity."

Activities at the school have included a multi-cultural week, which saw pupils share Zulu song, dance, art and drama with young people from South Africa.

Sir Christopher Frayling, Arts Council England chairman, said: "An Artsmark recognises the significant achievements of schools committed to putting the transforming power of the arts at the heart of their curricula and at the heart of their school community."