Three decades of achievement were praised by Countess Darnley JP as John Kyrle High School marked the anniversary of its formation in 1979.
Speaking at the prizegiving for students, the Lord Lieutenant of Herefordshire paid tribute to the work involved in making the school such a success.
She took the opportunity to thank chair Karen Frost and other governors for their support of the school, also headteacher Nigel Griffiths and his team of dedicated teachers and support staff for their excellent work.
She was also impressed with the outstanding relationships that the school has with the parents, students and the local community.
In a letter received at the school, Countess Darnley said: “You have some very impressive results and delightful students who are setting out on their lives with high standards.
“They have the confidence to tackle life’s difficulties as well as its successes.
“I very much enjoyed meeting parents and students after the prize giving and came away most impressed and happy to see such a large group of hard working, well presented and happy young people.”
She also made a special presentation to Mrs Joyce Thomas MBE, who had served as school governor since it was established in 1979.
Countess Darnley said that Mrs Thomas had made an outstanding contribution to the community of Ross-on-Wye.
She was the first woman Mayor of the town, a district and county councillor for many years, chair of the West Mercia Police Authority and chair of the board of governors in the late 1970s.
Described as a stalwart enthusiast of JKHS ever since, she was also instrumental in the reorganisation of other local schools.
Headteacher Nigel Griffiths added: “Joyce has been a great friend of the school and is well respected by all involved.
“Her contribution has been greatly appreciated.”
