In his second annual report to staff, parents and friends of the school Bell Baxter rector Phil Black said that his optimism last year had proved "well founded" and that pupils "really were being given the opportunity to prepare for life".

However, warning against complacency, he added that the school faced as many new challenges as opportunities and the school must "change, develop, adapt and keep more than an eye on the future."

Speaking prior to the award ceremony for pupils, Mr Black firstly paid tribute to drama teacher Jane Baikie who tragically died in February after a short illness.

He said she was a "much loved member of staff and well respected teacher" who had her pupils' best interests at heart.

He also wished good health to three members of staff who have been unwell before moving on to talk about the wealth of opportunities for pupils at Bell Baxter both within and outwith the curriculum.

Mr Black said: "We excel in music, drama, art and sport to name a few areas of outstanding success for groups, teams and individuals over the years.

"Add to this our many trips abroad, residential experiences and the opportunities to be involved in Fairtrade, charity work and eco schools initiatives, which all clearly demonstrate that this school is determined to provide a rich experience for everyone."

Mr Black went on: "The achievements of our pupils in athletics, especially this season are quite outstanding.

"Our orchestras and music groups are quite outstanding, and we have huge talent being developed in other areas including drama.

"It was a great pleasure for me to attend the Easter concert, the Centenary Cup music competition, our annual sports afternoon and the finals of the Scottish Schools Rugby Sevens and to see so many pupils displaying their talents and abilities."

As well as the challenges facing pupils, Mr Black said the school faced its own challenges including a 10 per cent turn over of staff this year.

Paying tribute to those leaving after lengthy periods of service, he said: "Quite how we fill the void left from this immense talent and experience leaving at the one time I am not quite sure but we must, and next session welcome 12 new members of staff, nearly 10 per cent of our overall staffing."

Staff who left Bell Baxter at the end of the session included depute rector Tricia Hart; music teacher Pat Mitchell after 38 years service; PE teacher Jim Russell after 33 years service; Andrew Hay, principal teacher of CDT; and history teacher Mhairi Sheils.

Full list of award winners in this week's Fife Herald.