A TOP award has been presented to a Worcester school for its commitment to the arts.

Rose Hill School, which caters for children with physical, multi-sensory and learning disabilities has received one of 566 Artsmark awards given to schools across the country.

The initiative, from the Arts Council of England, recognises educational establishments which provide opportunities across the arts from drama to music, design to literature and dance to sculpture.

The scheme also encourages schools to work in partnership with artists and arts organisations.

Tiny reflection

"Achieving this award is a tiny reflection of the enthusiasm and energy that staff at Rose Hill have invested in Arts Education," said head teacher Frank Steel.

"I am delighted that their efforts have been recognised."

Pupils from the school, in Windermere Drive, Warndon, are currently involved in creating natural art works with a local artist and older students from Manor Park.

A musical based on the story of Noah's Ark and recording songs on to a CD have been other exciting projects on offer at the school.

Peter Hewitt, chief executive of the Arts Council of England said he was delighted with the response to this national scheme.

"Artsmark celebrates the importance of the arts in education and rewards the commitment of schools to introducing children to the arts at an early age. We hope this interest stops with them all their lives."

Schools displaying the Artsmark badge demonstrate they are concerned with the wider development of young people and not just academic success.