Teenagers are flocking into Lincolnshire to attend a college in Long Sutton.
More than 100 of the 670 students at Peele Community College are now from the neighbouring counties of Norfolk and Cambridgeshire.
Headteacher Simon Gilman says the influx is down to the school’s excellent exam results, with 93 per cent achieving five A* to C grades at GCSE and 48 per cent of them including maths and Engligh.
Last year, the Government announced a reduction of the number of vocational courses that would count towards a school’s GCSE performance in league tables.
From 2014, just 70 vocational qualifications will count towards a school’s GCSE performance.
Mr Gilman said: “Our school believes in old-fashioned standards – focusing on mathematics, English, science, humanities and modern foreign language.
“By the end of Year 11 they will have the breadth of qualifications to help them succeed in their future lives.”
As a result of the school’s success, seven South Holland district councillors have dug deep into their personal budgets to support four projects.
Couns Michael Booth, Simon Booth, Chris Brewis, Michael Seymour, Andy Tennant, David Wilkinson and Sarah Wilkinson gave a total of £1,400 for new decking for the students’ garden, sound system equipment for the hall, new football kit and to help set up the Year 11 ball.
They went along to the school on Thursday to present the cheque and congratulate the school. Coun Brewis said: “We would like to pay tribute to the efforts of the hard-working students and staff.
“It is incredible in a county where it is difficult to hold on to our young people to find a school that is attracting teenagers from outside.
“You only have to see the number who have left and return to get their certificates at the awards night to know there is something special about this school.”
Staff were particularly excited about cash for the sound system, especially as The Young Americans were working with students in workshops over three days last week. Mr Gilman said: “A better sound system means we will be able to put on high quality productions at the school.”
There was a glimpse of the next production, Schools We Will Rock You, with students in costume at the presentation. The show will be at the school on March 19 and 20.
For details, visit www.thepeele.co.uk