A Leigh school is set to launch a bid for £600,000 to become a specialist college for media and the arts.

Belfairs High School, in Highlands Boulevard, is hoping to take advantage of a Government scheme which encourages schools to specialise in key areas of the curriculum.

Headteacher John Duprey said: "We aim to give students here access to as wide a range of educational opportunities as possible.

"That is why the school's governing body has invested heavily in facilities for a new six-form study centre, sports facilities and information and communication technology.

"The next stage of the school's development is to bid for a place as one of the specialist colleges being established by the Department for Education and Skills.

"Having examined our curriculum and looked at the existing specialist colleges in the region, we have decided to apply to specialise in media and the arts."

Published Monday August 19, 2002

Brought to you by the Evening Echo