HESKETH Fletcher CofE School is aiming to become the first Science with Business Enterprise College in the country.

Headteacher of the Atherton school, Dr Ted Walker, said: "We have chosen this unique blend because we are convinced that it meets the needs of the school, the community and the North West."

The status will mean that the school will focus on Science and Business and spend money on the latest facilities. The aim will be to raise standards of teaching and results in these subjects and in turn all others. Facilities and expertise will be shared with other schools and the community will be encouraged to get involved in education.

The Atherton school has had to raise £50,000 to apply for the specialist status. Parents and businesses have donated £14,000 and the remaining £36,000 will come from Charles Billson, chairman of the Longport group.

The bid is launched today (Thursday) with Mr Billson, MP Andy Burnham and Atherton Councillor Sue Loudon visiting the school and if successful will see a huge injection of government cash into the school.