A SECONDARY school in which pupils have created a "bigot-busting" code of conduct is the first in Scotland to receive an award for its efforts to tackle religious sectarianism.

Duncanrig Secondary School in East Kilbride, South Lanarkshire, has achieved accredited status as part of the anti-sectarian charity Nil By Mouth's Champion for Change campaign.

Schools must fulfil certain criteria to receive the honour which recognises its work in addressing and challenging bigotry across the curriculum.

Nil By Mouth campaign director Dave Scott praised the "exceptionally high standard" of the work carried out at the school.

In the last term alone, pupils, staff and parents have taken part in workshops, hosted a number of events and organised an inter-faith football tournament.

Pupils have also created a code of conduct which states that no sectarian words, jokes or songs should be used in the school, and there should be no negative behaviour towards others based on religion. It also says that discussions about football should be about the game, rather than religion or politics.

Pupils who break the code are asked to explain their behaviour, with a letter sent home to their parents.

The school keeps a record of all incidents so they can monitor the problem.

Mr Scott praised its efforts and said: "The exceptionally high standard and commitment shown by the entire school community makes Duncanrig a more-than-worthy winner of this award.

"Through their pioneering anti-sectarian charter, these pupils, parents and teachers have pledged to banish bigotry once and for all.

"Duncanrig has set the benchmark across the country."

Local MSP Linda Fabiani has lodged a motion at Holyrood praising the school. She said: "I am a strong admirer of the work of Nil By Mouth and am delighted Duncanrig secondary is the first in Scotland to receive this accreditation.

"Sectarianism has no place in Scottish society."

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