A SCHOOL that caters for pupils with emotional, social and behavioural difficulties is the first of its kind in the UK to receive an award for excellence.

Penkford School, in Wharf, Newton has received a Schools Excellence Award from ICT provider RM for its impressive use of the subject.

The school was rewarded for successfully integrating technology in a way that ensures the patience of students with challenging behaviours is not tested and that attainment levels are raised.

John Twiss, ICT co-ordinator for the school, said: "ICT is really important to a school like Penkford, not only because of what it is in itself, but also because of what it can achieve - the engagement and motivation of the students."

He added: "We've really noted how the ICT has a positive effect on the pupils.

"At unstructured times of the day, such as break and lunchtime, the computer rooms are often full of students enjoying use of the equipment.

"This in turn has helped these times to be enjoyable for students."

Tim Pearson, CEO of RM, said: "Penkford School is faced with some very specific challenges and it is encouraging to see how they have made ICT really work for them in addressing these and creating a success story that extends, not only across the whole school, but also out in to the community as well.

"They should feel rightly proud of this latest achievement."