IF England is to win the World Cup in a decade or so, it could be thanks to the skills of young footballers at Highcrest School.

The school in Hatters Lane, High Wycombe, won the Wycombe District under-12 B League this season, a fact that was recognised on Monday when captain Brad Miguel and vice captain Warren Sharif were presented with the district shield as part of a morning of celebrations.

Pupils, teachers and parents gathered in the hall where two other pupils, Karrine Eshun and Andrew Smith, received the Challenge Award, for excellence in provision for able, gifted and talented students, on behalf of the school.

Deputy head Ian Newton said every child mattered at Highcrest and every student had unique talents.

"The challenge is to find them, bring them out, and give you the opportunity to use them."

The award was given by NACE, the National Association for Able Children in Education.

NACE has been around for 23 years but the award is just six months old and Highcrest is the 12th secondary school in the country to get it.

Head Shena Moynihan said to the students: "This award is about what you can do. It is about making the most of every single one of your talents."

The presentation was made by NACE trustee Ben Barton, after pupils put on displays ranging from singing, dancing, gymnastics and trampolining, to explanations of science, of how to set up a business and of the work of the school council.

The whole programme was devised and led by the pupils. Introductions were given in English and a range of foreign languages. The official programme was designed by Peter Brown of Year Eight and the muffins were made by pupils in Year Nine.

Mr Barton said what impressed him was the breadth of what was being done. The award is given for high quality work throughout the school, which challenges all students to achieve their best.

Assessors spent a day going to lessons and talking to pupils, teachers, parents and governors.