SCHOOLS in Watford are among the most skilled in the country, it was officially announced by Education and Skills Secretary Estelle Morris last week.

Four schools in Watford Westfield Community School in Tolpits Lane, Watford; Watford Grammar School for Boys in Rickmansworth Road, Watford; Watford Grammar School for Girls in Lady's Close, Watford; and Wall Hall Nursery School in Church Lane, Aldenham celebrated national recognition at the end of last month, after one was awarded specialist school status and a further three allocated Beacon awards by the Government.

Staff and pupils of Westfield Community School were at the forefront of celebrations after it was awarded Specialist Technology College status.

The Special School Status programme, which gives college status to schools in subjects of technology, language, art and sport, has been in operation in the UK by the DFES (Department for Education and Skills) since 1994.

By concentrating on one of these subjects, successful schools are provided with funding over a period of four years to develop its expertise within that field.

The headteacher of Westfield Community School who has spent the past two years spearheading its application for specialist school status as a Technology College for which it had to find sponsorship of £50,000 is overwhelmed by the success.

Mrs Jan Spavin, headteacher at the school for the past 4 years, said: "We are delighted at this accolade. It is a stamp of approval for the improvements that have already taken place at the school but, more importantly, it is recognition the school can continue to improve and develop upon."

The new status, to take effect from September, will bring in additional funding of more than £600,000, which will be spent on refurbishing specialist areas, developing new initiatives and upgrading computer facilities including the purchase of 30 lap-tops.

The lap-tops will not only be accessible to teachers and pupils working at the school but by those at its partner schools Laurance Haines, Chater Junior and Infants, Holywell, St Anthony's Roman Catholic, Watford Grammar School for Girls, Watford Grammar School for Boys, Falconer and individuals within the wider community.

Mrs Spavin said: "I am especially pleased our expertise and facilities will be shared with other schools. I hope this development will begin a culture of greater co-operation between schools, so all of the children in this area can achieve their best, whatever their abilities."

Staff of the newly-awarded Beacon Schools schools identified as among the best performing in the country also look forward to a term of improvement. Each will receive annual funds of approximately £35,000, which will go towards maintaining a prime position at the forefront of achievement and expertise, enabling guidance and support to teachers and pupils in neighbouring schools.

Mrs Helen Hyde, headteacher of Watford Grammar School for Girls, said: "I am absolutely delighted we have been awarded national recognition. To be able to share our skills and expertise as a school is what we are all about."

July 9, 2001 12:10

Victoria Dillingham