A pupil referral unit in Hitchin is celebrating after winning a prestigious award dedicated to the personal development of students.

The North Herts Education Support Centre in Bancroft was hailed after being honoured at the inaugural Association of Character Education conference.

The eastern region winners award is to recognise the centre’s work to develop resilience and grit in youngsters, helping them stay on the right track once they leave school – improving their employment chances and increasing their participation in society.

The team at NHESC beat tough competition from thousands of entries from mainstream primary, secondary, special schools and pupil referral units.

Head Julie Vernon-Hamilton said: “This award strengthens the thread between all our students, past and present, confirms our outstanding judgement and is important for all the staff that their hard work has been recognised.”