School to be science centre of excellence (From Tewkesbury Admag)

School to be science centre of excellence

WINCHCOMBE School has officially launched its specialist status which comes with a £150,000 windfall to help create a centre of excellence in science.

The new status will also benefit local primary schools and bring new opportunities for adult learners.

Headteacher John Reilly said he was delighted The campaign to win the status had paid off.

"It took about 18 months to prepare the application and find the £44,000 we needed to raise.

"We are very grateful for all the support we were given by the community.

"Now the challenge is to make the most of this opportunity."

The extra money will be used to employ a new science teacher at the school and update facilities and equipment.

The school will also improve its links with local primaries with cash grants of £1,000 going to Winchcombe Abbey, Didbrook, Gretton, Oak Hill at Alderton and Toddington primary schools.

There will also be the chance for adults to expand their knowledge of science with lecture events and courses planned at the school.

Negotiations are continuing about running these in conjunction with Gloscat and the Workers' Educational Association.

"We are particularly delighted that we won this specialist status on our first attempt," said Mr Reilly. "This is a great boost for us but also good news for the whole community."

Adam Henson, co-owner of the Cotswold Farm Park and television presenter, visited the school yesterday to help parents, staff and pupils celebrate .