PE teacher Gareth Williams and his 15-strong team have local and national events to train for. “It’s a very good school. The students are very supportive of what we try and teach them.”

Melissa Lamb, 17, has a bronze medal for Taekwondo and is in the top 33 in the world. “I really like it here. I get a lot of support and they understand if the work is late.”

Emily Tiffin-Hall, 16, who runs the Animal Club which helps quieter students, said: “We get the chance to take the animals home.”

Joe Bartlett, 17, trampolinist said: “I have a good relationship with my teachers, they will help me sort problems out.”

Head of art Patrick Mathlin is proud of the arts evening held every year. “It’s a wonderful occasion. It is really an opportunity for students to be able to celebrate what they have achieved.”

Katie Bligh, 17, was responsible for producing a calendar of students’ art work. “I wanted to present it in a way they would be proud of and I had a lot of support from the teachers.”

Rukia Sultana, 17, studying art and graphics, said of the arts evening: “It’s a great opportunity to get together and show off our arts.”

Head girl Jodie Simpson, 17, enjoys the sixth form where she is studying English language and literature, media and business. “We have a better relationship with teachers and students are more attentive.”

Kerr Melvin-Smith, 17, said: “I looked at different sixth forms and decided to come here. It’s a brilliant sixth form. The teachers know how to get the best out of you.”

Joseph Philip, 18, said: “Poole High has a lot of different options. There are great ways for us to get out and do stuff.”

Head boy Nathan McGregan, 18, said: “Staff in the sixth form are really good. They help out with issues. You feel comfortable.”

Charity fundraiser Liberty Hammond-Forge, 17, holder of the Princess Diana Award said: “I am going to be really sad when I leave. It’s my family. I’m going to try and learn for as long as possible.”