Ralph Barker, the headteacher, said the committee addressed a range of issues such as attainment, behaviour and basic human rights. “The main benefit has been a total alteration in the perception that pupils, staff and parents have of the school compared to five or six years ago.”

Jennifer Armit, photographed left making a key ring, belongs to one of many lunch clubs that make things for charity.

Professor Mary Simpson of Edinburgh University, who chairs the judges, said the ethos committee had been tackling the effects of social deprivation in an increasingly effective way. “Their efforts are now showing up clearly.”

Runner-up was the cluster of schools based around Menzieshill High in Dundee for effectively addressing issues such as low attainment and indiscipline.

Commendations were awarded to Lochgelly High and Lochgelly North primary in Fife for a joint ethos project and to Tynecastle High in Edinburgh for tackling racism and social exclusion.