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Forest Hall School has been on a journey of transformation since joining the BMAT group of schools in 2015.

Having joined the Trust with just 321 students, it is now celebrating its 501st student and is on track to reach its target of 560 students by 2020.

Radical changes including the introduction of Saturday school, launch of holiday revision clubs and 100-minute lessons are among the tools used to turn around the reputation and achievements of the school.

Hannah Jones, head of school, said those changes have given parents belief the school is the best one for their children.

She said: “The improved exam results have meant more local parents and carers send their child to this school. Also, although we have more than 500 students now, we still have that small school feel. Teachers know students by their first name and the relationship which students build with their peers throughout vertical tutoring – where children from each year group form each tutor group - is also a plus. “We can now offer a wide range of subjects at KS4, including sociology, engineering and photography. For a small school, that is fantastic. With student numbers growing, we are always reviewing and extending our curriculum. This year alone, we have introduced dance in KS3 and will introduce dance in KS4 in 2019-2020.

“We are looking forward to the potential of being an over-subscribed school in 2019-2020.”

Stephen Hehir, executive head, said: “It is a tribute to the dedication and hard work of students, staff, parents/carers, Local Advisory Board members, local employers and the community that the school is growing day by day and year by year.

“The journey we have been on in the last three years clearly shows students at Forest Hall School can and do achieve the highest grades and compete on an equal footing with students in the community and across England.

“Well done to everyone connected with Forest Hall School!”