TOP marks have been awarded to a school in which leadership and management are improving students’ academic and personal development.

St David’s High School, Saltney, received the IIP (Investors in People) Award for Leadership and Management following assessment against national standards in December.

The assessment panel report notes: “The culture of the school is open and supportive, one of striving for continuous improvement, with a respect for people’s knowledge and strengths at its core.

“People enjoy working at the school because of its sense of purpose, its achievements, strength of team working and the support given to the individual.”

The report also notes: “The school has strong processes in place to provide regular and constructive feedback to staff at all levels and a culture of support and encouragement.”

Headteacher Tony Davidson said: “This follows the basic IIP award we received three years ago and I am pleased so many strengths have been highlighted this time around.

“We found the additional IIP process challenging and worthwhile and I am proud of what staff and students here have achieved.

“Good leadership and management matter greatly if a school is to be successful in promoting and sustaining high standards.

“In 2007 we achieved our best ever exam results. We will be doing our absolute best to do even better this year.”