A secondary school has become the first in London to win a prestigious award in recognition for its efforts in tackling homophobic bullying and celebration of diversity.

Woodside High School, in Wood Green, is the fourth secondary school to win the Stonewall School Champion Gold award.

Actor, campaigner and founder of Stonewall, Sir Ian McKellen, was at Woodside High School to congratulate staff and students.

Sir Ian spoke to over 250 members of the Student Council from Years 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11, the Student Equality and Diversity Group and staff about his campaign work.

He also spoke on the importance of working to guarantee equality for everyone.

Gerry Robinson and Elma McElligott, co-headteachers at Woodside High School, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Woodside High School has won the Stonewall School Champion Gold award.

“It is a testament to the hard work of our whole school community and our shared commitment to tackling prejudice in all its forms.”

The Stonewall School Champions programme is geared towards the creation of a safe and welcoming learning environment for all students.

Stonewall research has shown that secondary schools that work to tackle homophobic, bi-phobic and transphobic bullying get positive results.

Dominic Arnall, head of projects and programmes at Stonewall, said: “Stonewall is thrilled to award Woodside High School with a Gold Champions Programme.

“They will become the first secondary school in London to receive the award, the highest we offer in this category.

“I have visited Woodside personally a number of times and the happy, productive young people are testament to the hard work the faculty have put in, ensuring that every student at Woodside High is accepted without exception.”