Watch out Fame Academy - students at a Westcliff school could be the new stars of the future after receiving a £1.4million Government grant for a performing arts centre.
Staff and pupils at St Bernards High School in Milton Road now have to raise £140,000 - ten per cent of the grant - to make their dream a reality.
The school already boasts several past pupils who have found fame and fortune in the TV and film world, including Prime Suspect star Helen Mirren and actor Gemma Craven.
Anne Stallybrass, who made her name in the 1970's BBC drama The Onedin Line, also attended the school.
A planning application has been sent to Southend Council outlining the proposals, which include a four-storey building complete with three drama studios and a textiles unit.
It is hoped work will start in September 2004. The grant was given by the Department for Education and Skills.
Phil Harvey, deputy headteacher at St Bernards High School, said: "This is great news. "If all goes to plan the centre should be up and running by the end of the next school year.
"We were overjoyed to receive the grant but now the hard work starts to raise the additional ten per cent of £140,000. Hopefully people will give generously."
Published Monday, April 7 , 2003
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