HUDDERSFIELD MP Barry Sheerman has welcomed news that two local schools have been awarded specialist status.
King James's School, at Almondbury, and Royds Hall High, at Paddock, have both been named specialist schools for science.
Specialist schools have a record of above average achievement. GCSE results for 2003 showed that an average 57% of specialist school pupils achieved 5 or more A* to C grades compared to 49% for non-specialist schools.
Mr Sheerman said: "This is great news for both schools and for Huddersfield.
"We need more scientists and these two schools will contribute to the sciences and the future prosperity of the country"
To apply for specialist status, schools must raise £50,000 in private sponsorship and draw up a four-year school and community development plan to raise standards, increase provision and encourage participation in their specialist subject.
Specialist schools receive a one- off grant from the Government of £100,000 plus an annual grant of £126 per student over four years.
"The teachers and staff of King James's and Royds Hall High should be proud of their hard work and the specialist status they have achieved," Mr Sheerman added.
