Students in Wymondham have become the first in Norfolk to earn their school a prestigious badge marking it as a world class place to learn.

Eastern Daily Press: Wymondham College is awarded a World Class School Quality Mark. The school's three World Class Schools ambassadors, from left, Miles Contreras-Brown, 17; Rebecca Hibberd, 17; and Jali Packer, 17. Picture: DENISE BRADLEYWymondham College is awarded a World Class School Quality Mark. The school's three World Class Schools ambassadors, from left, Miles Contreras-Brown, 17; Rebecca Hibberd, 17; and Jali Packer, 17. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Copyright: Archant 2015)

Wymondham College is one of 18 secondary schools around the country - and the only one in the county - to attain the World Class Schools Quality Mark (WCSQM) this year.

The WCSQM, now in its second year, is awarded to schools which have an Ofsted outstanding grade but wish to prove they are a cut above the rating.

Schools put forward a group of pupils to undergo the mark's rigorous assessment centre.

Students and WCSQM ambassadors Miles Contreras-Brown, Rebecca Hibberd and Jali Packer, all 17, were selected to tackle the exams for the college and all passed with flying colours.

Eastern Daily Press: Wymondham College's World Class School Quality Mark plaque. Picture: DENISE BRADLEYWymondham College's World Class School Quality Mark plaque. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Copyright: Archant 2015)

Jonathan Taylor, Wymondham College headteacher, said: 'We are delighted to receive the word class school quality mark.

'As an Ofsted outstanding school and one of the highest achieving state schools nationally, the world class schools quality mark recognises that education at Wymondham College goes far beyond what Ofsted look for and can be regarded as competing with the very best schools around the world.'

The accolade praised the college's extra-curricular activity programme.

The school must re-apply every two years to maintain the status.

Mr Taylor said: 'The positive attitude of our students, demonstrated through a community challenge that they completed in London, was commended by assessors.

'Only 18 schools nationally received the award, which rightfully recognises the quality of students and staff at the college.'

Miranda Perry, co-director of the WCSQM, said: 'The mark is about recognising how well the top secondary schools in the country prepare their students to thrive in the 21st century. We are confident that our awarded schools provide their students with the best life chances possible.'

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