ONE of the district's high schools is celebrating after its commitment to high-quality music education has been formally recognised.

Ponteland High School has now been awarded Music Mark school status. Music Mark is the UK association for music education, which champions and supports access to music for all children.

Mr Noble, director of music at the school, said: "I am delighted that the hard work and dedication of both students and staff has been recognised and Ponteland High given this award.

"Music makes an important contribution to the life of the school; it helps build students’ self-esteem, self-discipline, team skills and creativity."

The school's music department runs a varied programme of extracurricular activities, which support and enhance classroom learning, with junior and senior ensembles and choirs, Jazz bands, and production and theory groups available.

Students have performed at venues including the Sage Gateshead.