A HOST of red balloons has launched Lakers School's bid for Special College Status as a centre of excellence for performing arts.

"This does not mean that we are becoming a selective establishment," said head teacher Alison Elliott.

"We are bidding for a £200,000 one-off government grant towards equipment plus £50,000 a year over the next four years, adding up to some £400,000 altogether.

"We are aiming to complete a 'full set' for the Forest – there are five categories under which you can apply for special college status and Dean Magna has applied for technology, Whitecross for languages, Heywood for sport and Newent for visual arts.

"We have gone for performing arts because I feel it is an area which improves pupil confidence – we are not trying to make everyone into leading performers.

"We will be improving out links with the community, and a third of the money has to go in this direction with the aim of lifelong education. Since we launched our drive we are already getting some very positive feedback and pledges of additional sponsorship from local firms."

She said she would welcome more support and anyone could ring the school for a pledge form on 01594 832263.

The whole school turned out for the bid's launch.

"It has only been a few days and one has already turned up in Germany," said Mrs Elliott.