A leading South Hams secondary school has scooped an Investors in People award.

With more than 180 staff, Kingsbridge Community College is one of the biggest employers in the town.

The assessor commented on the "buzz of energy" with staff showing tremendous enthusiasm for learning - for their pupils and for themselves.

Comments from staff included "the respect everyone shows for each other is unparalleled in my experience" and "this school is an extraordinary place to work".

College principal Roger Pope said he was delighted to gain the coveted award.

"We are very fortunate to have high quality staff who are so committed to providing the very best for students," explained Mr Pope.

He added: "We are delighted that this has been recognised."

It has been an excellent few months for the school. In March, the school was judged to be "outstanding" in each of the 43 separate categories graded by Ofsted inspectors.

This is a rare accolade, achieved by only 1 per cent of the 1,300 secondary schools inspected last year.

Inspectors found a "very happy community of adults and students who all want to learn".

They were impressed by the very positive relationships throughout the school, and the atmosphere of mutual respect, loyalty and trust.