AN independent school on the Cornwall-Devon border has received a coveted award from a nationwide body.

St Joseph's School in Launceston has been presented with an award for excellence by the Independent School Association, made up of approximately 300 accredited schools nationwide. The association selects one school each year to receive its most coveted award.

It was presented at the annual conference in Bristol by the association chairman Arthur Bray. The school was represented at the conference by headmaster Graeme Garrett and Sue Rowe, who takes over as head in September.

The award is in recognition of 'outstanding public examination attainment in 2009 and 2010, excellent Key Stage 2 results, national recognition for music and ballet, contribution to the community through charitable fundraising, high achievements in individual and team sports, success at all levels in the Duke of Edinburgh scheme and a significant rise in pupil numbers'.

Sue Rowe said: 'It is wonderful that achievements in so many areas have been recognised and we will continue to provide an excellent education with small classes and high expectations.

'I am particularly pleased that the citation recognises the high quality all round education provided at St Joseph's for both girls and boys. For some time our academic results have been widely recognised as excellent but this award highlights the outstanding performance across the board.'

Over the past 12 months, pupils from St Joseph's have represented the school in national, regional and county competitions. The choir was invited to sing at the Royal Albert Hall and the junior football and junior and senior netball teams have won their respective leagues.

The success of the school has been reflected in a 20% increase in pupil numbers over the last 18 months.