RIVINGTON and Blackrod High School is celebrating after being awarded technology college status for another four years.

The school, based in Rivington Lane, Horwich, was established as Bolton's only specialist technology college in 2000.

The status has enabled the school to forge ahead with innovation and cutting-edge educational developments.

Headteacher Tony Purcell said: "I would like to say a big thank you to all our staff, who have shown great enthusiasm, professionalism and dedication in our work across the school and the wider community.

"Their support and commitment has helped us to achieve this award and has given our young people the best opportunities that we can possibly deliver."

In the past four years, the school has created Information and Communications Technology (ICT) centres in local primary schools and strengthened science teaching.

It has also created new systems for teaching technology, developed new ICT suites and an electronic library.

The continued status means that the school will be able to continue with and enhance the work it is doing.

The Specialist Schools Trust, which awards the status, will also provide cash for the school to develop new laboratory resources in science and technology for post-16 pupils.

The school also plans to develop a Science and Technology Innovation Centre, to provide enhanced and extended learning for youngsters.

The funding will also help the school develop courses in construction and engineering.

Ladybridge High School, in Deane, works in partnership with Rivington and Blackrod High School, and has also just received specialist sports college status for September, 2005.

John Baumber, executive principal of the joint initiative, called The Brook Learning Partnership, said: "Joint status with Ladybridge High School will bring real opportunities to our primary partners and the broader communities across both schools in technology, science, ICT and sport."