A PORTLAND school is to be used as a national model after inspectors hailed it the best in the country.

Government Ofsted inspectors said the work-related learning programme run by Royal Manor Arts College, in Weston Road, was of such high quality that it would be used as an example of good practice across England.

The college's head teacher Paul Green said representatives from 10 schools are coming to look at the way the scheme is running.

"The inspectors said our work related learning scheme outstanding and better even than some local authorities, not just other schools. We are going to be used as an example all over the country," he said.

Work-related learning is a broad range of activities for students of all ages.

Activities in the programme help students learn about the world of work by experiencing and preparing for it and so help them develop knowledge, skills and understanding that will be useful when they leave school

Ofsted inspectors said the school, which has 850 pupils aged between 11 and 16 and employs 85 teaching and support staff, has improved consistently since its last inspection in May 1998.

The inspectors said: "Royal Manor Arts College is a good college and provides good value for money. Students' achievement is good, teaching and learning are good, leadership and management are good.

"Standards are rising due to the innovative curriculum that is motivating students and raising their aspirations.

"The quality of education provided by the college is good and the quality of teaching is good throughout the college."

Mr Green said before the inspectors arrived there had been a survey of pupils and parents and their attitudes to the school.

"The inspection looked at the results of this survey and found that both parents and children are pleased with the college. A clear majority like all aspects of what we do here," he said.

"Overall I am very, very pleased with the report. The children have done very well and the staff have done particularly well. We can be very pleased with the improvements we have made over the last three or four years.

"We now need to consolidate that achievement and take it up to the next level," he said.