A Bristol school which opened in 2003 has been named as Outstanding Academy in the 2007 Education Business Awards.
The City Academy saw off competition from 83 other schools nationwide, including finalists from London, Manchester and Nottingham.
Judges recognised the progress made by students along with the improvement made by ethnic minorities children.
Principal Dr Ray Priest said: "This recognises the magnificent progress made by Bristol's first academy."
The Outstanding Academy award was presented at the Education Business Awards ceremony, held annually at Westminster Abbey.
The academy made news earlier this year when it was announced it was to scan students' fingerprints to allow them to get their lunch.
The academy opened in 2003 and has more than 1,100 pupils aged between 11 and 18.
Among its visitors has been David Beckham, who turned up in March to teach youngsters soccer skills.
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