A STOURPORT school has been hailed for its excellence in raising pupils' awareness about "green" issues - and for the way it encourages youngsters to care for each other.

Windmill Middle School leads the way by spreading the message about the environment and sustainability in every subject, according to officers from HM Inspectorate.

The school was one of just 50 in the country selected to help inspectors set benchmark standards for education and sustainable development.

And it was given top marks for the way it tackled a range of topics.

Key to its success is the "brilliance" of its teachers, said proud head teacher Linda Warren. youngsters from Windmill Middle School - Matthew Roberts, 10, Stephen More, 11, Kelly Purser, 11,Lucy Liebenrood, 10, and Sian Spree, 10 - check out the pond.

Inspectors highlighted recycling projects, which include reusing waste paper and creating a can bank near the school, which is in Princess Way, Areley Kings.

The school has also been involved in collecting used stamps for recycling. Pupils are taught to value their planet and to take care of it at every opportunity, added Mrs Warren.

The school is also creating an environmental "outdoor classroom", including a pond and upgraded gardens.

And teachers have carried out an audit showing how the issues of sustainable development are applied in every subject in the curriculum, said Mrs Warren.

One individual who came in for special praise was geography lead teacher Becky Link, particularly for the way she raises awareness of global issues and the Third World.

"I am really lucky to have some brilliant teachers here and Becky is one of them.

"It is great that she has been praised for her hard work," added Mrs Warren.

The school's work on social development and citizenship was also praised, particularly its pupil mediation scheme.

Prefects at the school help other pupils solve minor squabbles and friendship disputes.

Youngsters who agree to go to mediation are counselled and encouraged to resolve squabbles through compromise.

"It is part of our ethos of encouraging pupils to have positive attitudes.

"We train them to care for each other and to share a team spirit," added Mrs Warren.