Penryn College have achieved one of 1,220 Arts Council England Artsmark awards, it has been revealed. In this sixth Artsmark round only 559 schools achieved Artsmark Gold status.

Artsmark is the national arts award for schools that demonstrate a commitment to developing their arts provision - from drama to music, art to dance, and media to literature. The scheme encourages schools to work in partnership with artists and arts organisations. The arts can transform lives and raise aspirations and improve opportunities for young people and their local communities. To engage with the arts is a key priority for the Arts Council.

Marie Hunter, headteacher at Penryn College, said: "There is a huge amount of arts activity at Penryn College. For example, in June 2005 almost 400 children took part in a Penryn Partnership production of "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat" including seven primary feeder schools, 75 students from the college and 55 children from the Five Islands School on the Isles of Scilly.

"Almost 75% of students in Year 10 take at least one arts subject which is an amazing achievement. A massive thank you to the staff for all their hard work in achieving this award."

Henry Preston, chairman of governors, said: "Governors have always known that the college has produced outstanding arts provision across the range and this has been due to the hard work and talent of the teachers and students. It is therefore a pleasure to know that this has been confirmed by the Arts Council."

Sarah Lumley, head of creative arts, said: "This award has only been achieved because of the fantastic enthusiasm and commitment of the students and staff who have continued to give their own time to particate and provide such high-quality experiences.' Sir Christopher Frayling, Arts Council England chair, said: "Warm congratulations to those who have been awarded Artsmark this year! The arts are for everyone and Artsmark recognises the significant achievement of schools which are committed to putting the transforming power of the arts at the heart of their curricula - and at the heart of the school community."