A PRIMARY school in Farnworth is going hi-tech to mark its centenary year.

Children at Plodder Lane Primary are counting down the days to their school's 100th birthday - and they are inviting the rest of the community and even people further afield to join in the fun via the internet.

To raise the profile of the centenary year the school has launched its own website.

The site contains several hundred photos of the school - past and present, the history of the school and a forum where past pupils can add their thoughts, memories and comments.

The school will officially turn one hundred on April 10.

Headteacher, Paul Urry, said: "Plodder Lane has a rich and interesting history. It has been an important part of Farnworth and we would like to share our celebrations with the community. Many people are going on the website and finding out more about the school."

The headteacher is using the milestone to look to the future of the school by taking it into the 21st-century.

Plodder Lane Primary School is currently in special measures after Ofsted inspectors ruled in 2005 that it was "failing to give its pupils an acceptable standard of education".

Mr Urry, who started at the school last September, said: "We will be out of special measures soon thanks to the hard work of all the staff. The monitoring reports by Ofsted have been very positive.

"In two years time this primary will be an outstanding school in Farnworth and in 100 years time it will continue to serve the local community."

As well as the interactive website, a whole host of events have been planned throughout the year to celebrate the special birthday, including a special day in September welcoming the school's 10,000th pupil.

The school is using this year to raise funds for a birthday present - a new playground with a range of stimulating, colourful and co-operative games and facilities.

Mr Urry said: "At present, we have a bare playground, without any markings.

"The new design will create a variety of zones, including, a stage, small assault course, pirate ship, garden area, large wall games, a quiet area and football pitch. These will benefit every child we have at school.

"Our plans will be available on our website for anyone to see."

The school website is www.plodderlane.bolton.sch.uk