I WAS amazed during my visit to Nunnery Wood High, in Spetchley Road, at exactly what the school has to offer.

School staff are proud of the facilities, and it is no surprise, as last year they received a £2.5 million funding boost from the Department for Education.

They have built a new art centre and there has been a redevelopment of the science area. In addition, new gym facilities were introduced to the premises - and quite frankly I wanted to have a go myself.

I swiftly discovered the range of opportunities the students have at the school, whether that is exploring artistically, culturally or physically.

Upon arrival, I was introduced to the headteacher, Steve Powell, aged 51.

Mr Powell told the Worcester News how the school serves a diverse community and aims to cater for all walks of life.

He added: “We feel there is no better place for students, no matter what their ability, ambitions or background. We are delighted that currently we are the most successful in taking students to their next destination in life. We are a thriving educational community which buzzes with academic, sporting and artistic activity.”

I met with the assistant headteacher, Bee Speechley, 42, who gave me a tour around the vast premises.

Miss Speechley said: “We try to develop a student’s skills and interests which they might pursue later on in life.”

The Year 10 and 11 students are offered enrichment activities where they have one hour per week to be creative within their chosen subject.

These sessions aim to reduce the stresses from their studies and encourages the students to enhance their life skills.

The pupils can choose from a variety of activities, such as computer programming, junior sports leader, or an art-based subject, like photography.

Art teacher, Jamie Johnson, aged 32, added: “We notice a big difference in the students who take the lesson.”

Amaan Hussain, 14, is taking Design Technology as an enrichment class and he is interested in becoming an engineer.

“I love designing things and this class is good for the future. The class is relaxing and takes away the stresses from studying,” he added.

There was a sensational aroma walking through the school corridors. I entered the cookery classroom and spoke to Elliot White, 15, while he was poaching pears and red wine with water.

Impressively, at home he had prepared ginger and white chocolate ice cream and shortbread biscuits.

Elliot added: “I enjoy baking and I have taken up food as a GCSE. This enrichment class is handy to boost our skills and improve our confidence in the kitchen.”

What most caught my eye about the high school was the gym.

Student, Harrison Dolby, 13, said: “We are at that age now where fitness is so important, so we are very lucky to have these facilities. The gym offers a range of exercises for us to take part in, including cardiovascular activities and weights.”

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