AN outstanding class of students were given a pat on the back by Bolton Wanderers manager Dougie Freedman and former teachers.

Sharples School welcomed back the class of 2013 to celebrate their GCSE successes with parents, pupils, governors and special guests at the Last Drop Village.

The Sharples School Choir performed to the audience and former headteacher Lynn Porter gave an emotional speech to the Year 11 leavers about her time as their leader.

The students also welcomed back another friend of the school, Whites boss Dougie Freedman, who met the group the previous year when he delivered a motivational speech to inspire students to do well in their GCSEs.

Headteacher Rachel Quesnel said: “We are so proud of our young people and what they have achieved. Many of them gained excellent grades which has prepared them well for their college courses and university.

“We are also proud that 100 per cent of our leavers have progressed into education, employment or training. I wish them all the very best for successful futures in whatever they choose to do and hope they come back to visit their Sharples family from time to time.”

Former head girl Ellie Jarvis said: “It was lovely seeing everyone and celebrating our achievements. It an amazing way to end our time at Sharples. I thought it was great.”