A SOUTH Tyneside school is celebrating after being awarded triple specialist status.
Harton Technology College is the first school in the north east to be given the accolade, and one of only a handful in the country.
It has been re-designated technology college status, while modern foreign languages and vocational specialisms have a
lso been added.
The news comes just weeks after the school, in Lisle Road, South Shields, receiving an outstanding Ofsted report.
Headteacher Ken Gibson said: "These are exciting times for Harton Technology College.
"Following our recent Ofsted report, we have now been recognised as a high performing specialist school and given the rare privilege and opportunity to excel in three separate areas – technology, languages and vocational education.
"I would like to thank all of the staff involved, who under the expert leadership of deputy head, Chris Braybrook, have worked hard together in producing the three successful bids." The school, which has had technology college status since 1996, already teaches three modern foreign languages and staff aim to increase language options and help nearby primary schools and the community get to grips with languages.
The vocational programme means students can combine hands-on work with classes.
Chairman of governors, Scott Duffy, said: "Harton already offers a rich curriculum for our students.
Fantastic
"To be given the green light to become a school focusing on languages and vocational studies, in addition to being re-designated as a technology college, is fantastic news for the young people of Harton.
"These opportunities will benefit not only our pupils, but our feeder schools and the community as a whole."
South Shields MP David Miliband added: "This is great news for Harton Technology College.
"The school continues to go from strength to strength and I have been delighted with the progress made at the school over the last few years.
"Strong leadership and dedicated staff prove what can be achieved.
"This news will further enhance the teaching and learning at Harton."
By LEAH SHAWleah.shaw@northeast-press.co.uk