A Powys secondary school has been recognised for its commitment to raising standards.

Welshpool High School has been awarded the Careers Wales Mark, an award designed by Careers Wales to recognise schools' commitment to continuous quality improvement in the delivery of the Careers and the World of Work Framework.

The school will be presented with a certificate from Careers Wales, and will be able to display the Careers Wales Mark for the next three years.

This achievement recognises that Welshpool High School have processes in place that enables staff to continually review and improve provision relating to the requirements of the Careers and the World of Work framework, resulting in what they say is an enriched learning experience for learners.

Jamie Loxam, Assistant Headteacher, said the school's programme encouraged clear targets for future study and for students to further their careers.

"In a difficult economic climate, it is more important than ever to provide engaging and informative careers and work-related education programmes for all learners, equipping them with career management skills and preparing them to enter the world of work," he said.

"As well as the long-term benefits to learners’ future lives, there is evidence that good career guidance also brings benefits in the shorter term, while learners are still at school.

"These benefits include better motivation once learners have clear goals for future study and careers, leading to higher self-esteem and higher attainment."

The Careers Wales Mark has been designed to meet the Welsh Government’s statutory entitlement for Careers and the World of Work for 11-19 year olds in Wales.