We've got talent

This number looks set to increase following an identification process by staff.

Deputy head teacher Rob Russell said: "The work the college does on identifying high-achieving students paid off this summer when Beth Rose and Andrew Hutchins were ranked in the top five students in the country for their English Literature GCSE examination scores."

Suzanne Young, who is in charge of gifted and talented education at the college, added her praises.

She said: "We are extremely proud of Beth Rose and Andrew Hutchings who are now studying at Weymouth College and Thomas Hardye's.

"They thoroughly deserve the accolade of being two of the top five students in the country for English Literature."

School improvement work focusing on the gifted and talented has highlighted the numerous successes of the college in providing opportunities for these students, particularly through the college's work with the community.

One example of this was the hugely successful Summer School, attracting a large audience to see a version of Shakespeare's A Midsummer's Night Dream, set in the Chiswell walled garden.

Besides being entitled to take part in courses run by the National Academy and by Dorset Local Authority, the gifted and talented students are offered extra opportunities at RMAC, both in and outside the classroom.

These young people are often referred to as Rare Flair students, in line with the college's performing arts specialism.

Throughout the RMAC, these 31 Rare Flair students are currently being asked to become academic mentors, to help raise achievement among those younger than themselves, while at the same time developing their own skills and confidence.

Mr Russell added: "We have a superb record of developing the talents of students of all abilities here at Royal Manor and I am delighted that the support and enrichment activities we offer are benefiting so many students."