AN INVERCLYDE school has achieved prestigious places in Scottish rankings.

St Columba’s, Kilmacolm, was named fourth in a league table of top Scottish independent secondary schools, as well as second in the West of Scotland.

The results are based on  Advanced Higher, Higher and National 5 results.

Rector Andrea Angus, pictured centre, said the size of the school is one of its strengths.

She said: “With around 700 pupils, each child is known by name and recognised as an individual.

“Considerable effort is made to create an environment which allows us to identify and nurture the unique talents and skills of each pupil, and encourage each one of them to realise their full potential, grow and flourish.”

The school has received more good news after two pupils claimed places on a national team for a prestigious competition.

Senior pupils Hannah McLoughlin and Rachael Curry, who both live in Kilmacolm, have secured two of the five places on the Scotland team for the World Schools’ Debating Championships which will be held in Croatia this year.

Hannah, 17, who competed in the world championships in Bali last year, said: “We’re very excited to represent Scotland.

“It’s a privilege and opportunity to meet people from all over the world.”

Rachael, 16, added: "We’re extremely thankful to the school for all the help they have given to us both, which has ultimately resulted in us being able to debate on this platform.”