MONSTERS have appeared in school classrooms in Tottington to celebrate a top award.

The scary beings were created by pupils at Tottington High School after the school achieved Artsmark Gold status.

The Arts Council England’s award recognises commitment to, and excellence in, art education.

The latest project is part of the school’s dedication to the subject and its partnership with artists and musicians such as sculptress Marjan Wouda and saxophonist Mike Manship. Headteacher Alan Scott said: “I am delighted that the Arts Council has recognised Tottington High School’s dynamic arts education programme.

“Our students have really enjoyed working with writers, artists and performers, and I would like to thank all our staff for their hard work in achieving this award.”

A school must dedicate 15 per cent of its curricular teaching time to qualify for Artsmark Gold status. Since Artsmark began nine years ago, almost 10,000 awards have been made, with 1649 schools receiving the award this year.

Alan Davey, chief executive of Arts Council England, said: “Artsmark sets the standard for an outstanding arts offer in schools and it is great to see so many new schools attaining the Artsmark award this year.

“The award recognises Tottington High School’s passion for the arts and belief in the power of creativity.”