AN EASTLEIGH school has come top of the class after a rigorous 12 month long test.

Crestwood Community School has been awarded the coveted Investor in People (IIP) status by business Link Wessex.

The award was presented by BBC South's Sally Taylor to deputy headmaster David Andrews and the chairman of governors Dr Mike Windram at an award winners lunch at the Solent Hotel. Mr Andrews said: "This award symbolises our belief that the most importance resource the school has is its staff. We recognise that it is vital to value each member of the workforce to get the best out of them and this means that the students reap the benefits directly."

The IIP award is a significant development for Crestwood, particularly in its move towards establishing itself as a specialist school in business and enterprise.

Head teacher Phil Munday said: "We are all delighted with the award. Encouraging staff to continually improve their skills generates enthusiasm and the capability to enable students to reach their full potential.''