ST JAMES SCHOOL in Exeter has been named one of the ten most improved secondary schools in the country.

Figures published by the Government show St James has made significant improvements in the Key Stage 3 exams taken by 14-year-old students.

Over the past four years, from 2004 to 2007, the school's aggregate score for the exams in English, maths and science has risen from 123 out of 300 to 193.

This places St James joint eighth nationally in the new table of most improved secondary schools published by the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

Headteacher Helen Salmon said today: "I am delighted that our success at Key Stage 3 has been recognised by the DCSF. This is a fantastic achievement for the school and the hard work of staff and students.

"To be in the top 10 most improved schools in England for Key Stage 3 shows just how far the school has come.

"Tangible improvements in our results are now starting to come through. I am confident that we will also see improved GCSE results too in the next two years.

"Our young people are now aiming high and showing what they are capable of. More students are interested in progressing on to Exeter College and beyond into higher education.

"We are raising the bar for all our students and we expect great success in the future."

Devon's executive councillor for children's services, John Smith, said: "This is excellent news for St James and the wider education community of Exeter.

"I would particularly like to thank Helen Salmon and her team for the excellent leadership they have provided for the school and the staff and students for all their hard work."