KIRKHAM Grammar School has been awarded a top academic accolade for offering a high standard of education.

Headmaster Barry Stacey said he was delighted after receiving news that the school has been elected to membership of the Headmasters and Headmistresses Conference (HMC).

The HMC is a prestigious worldwide organisation made up of schools which operate strict qualifications for entry.

Each member school must have high academic standards reflected in the number of pupils pursuing education after GCSEs, and a strong sixth form with good A level results.

Mr Stacey was brimming with pride at the school's inclusion

He said: "It has always been my ambition to be the headmaster to take Kirkham Grammar School into the conference."

He went on to say how the school impressed independent school inspectors during a full school inspection two years ago. Following a similarly successful HMC inspection last year, Mr Stacey received unanimous support for his election to the conference.

He explained how the HMC currently has 250 members throughout the UK and dates back to 1869.

He said: "It all began when a gentleman named Edward Thring from Uppngham asked 37 of his fellow headmasters to meet at his house to consider the formation of a 'school society'.

"Heads now meet annually to discuss the practical issues of school life and educational development in general and and also regular meetings take place regionally."

He also thanked various people who he feels have been instrumental in the school's success: "I couldn't have achieved this honour without the strong support and impressive teamwork of governors, parents, staff and pupils."