Dinnington Comprehensive School has taken 20 Y10 students out of ordinary lessons to take part in the Wider Key Skills course will put them ahead of the game for their exams next summer.

Run by a company called Skillforce, the eight day course gives students the chance to work towards a qualification which is equivalent to two GCSEs which they'll receive before they start Y11.

Headteacher Paul Blackwell says he is very proud of the students.

"They have been absolutely tremendous," said Mr Blackwell.

"They only met their two trainers eight days ago and their behaviour has been incredible."

"It's very intensive and some of the students who usually find it difficult have done really well here. It's helped to make them more focused."

Deputy headteacher Sue Carhart says she thinks this will help encourage the students to succeed during their school careers.

"It really helps to raise their confidence," said Mrs Carhart.

"It will send them a long way towards a brighter future. Everything they achieve in Yr 11 will come in addition to this."

The students have been taught a variety of topics including first aid, trust exercises and presentations by two tutors from Skillforce.

One of the trainers says that although this course is always challenging, the students have responded very well.

"It's great working with them," said Paul.

"A lot of it is about independent learning. It gives them a taste of what it would be like at college or university because we give them something to do but it's up to them how they do it. A lot depends on their own enthusiasm."

Students are chosen for the course who are predicted to achieve three or four GCSEs in the coming exams in order to give them an opportunity to gain an extra two.

One pupil says she now feels more confident about setting herself goals for the future.

"I've really enjoyed it," said Jodi Ward, who is 15.

"I really prefer it to normal school. It's given me more confidence in myself and what I can achieve."

Another student says she will be very pleased to have two GCSEs in the bag before starting Y11.

"I really like how quick it's been," said Rebekah Glossop, who is also 15.

"It's great to have two GCSEs after just eight days, rather than two years like normal."

The students will now go back to normal lessons before starting their final GCSE year in September.