PUPILS were praised for their drive and determination at a prize giving at Smithills School.

More than 150 pupils and parents celebrated academic achievements at the awards ceremony.

And the students also received high praise for their excellent attendance records.

Bolton's deputy director of education Mr Terry Piggott was special guest at the ceremony held for students from Years 8, 9,10 and 11.

Headteacher Mr Mike Kehoe spoke about the role of parents welcomed the "strong support they were clearly being given at home."

Mr Kehoe referred to this year's GCSE and Year 9 test results saying that they proved a "significant success in raising levels of attainment."

And in addressing the parents, Mr Kehoe urged them to continue supporting their children at home.

But he added:" It is regrettable that in many cases children's progress is being hampered by frequent absence.

"We place great emphasis on a good record of attendance and it is right that we give recognition to those members of Smithills School who managed a full year of attendance."

Mr Kehoe also expressed his ambitions for the next year were to continue to raise "expectations" and standards at the Bolton secondary school.

Mr Piggott congratulated the pupils for their successful school year and presented prize winners with book tokens.

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