TWO schools within Leigh Education Action Zone are trailblazing a triumphant path for the rest of the UK to follow.

Twelve Apostles RC and Sacred Heart RC are the first primary schools in the country to be honoured with the prestigious Excellence in Work Related Learning Award from the University of Warwick.

It follows the 2002 Secondary Award success of Bedford High - but now the scheme has been opened up to include primary schools.

Praised

Both Twelve Apostles and Sacred Heart were highly praised by assessors from the university. The high standard of work and commitment from pupils, staff, parents and business partners astounded academics, who saw for themselves how pupils' attainment was raised by links with industry.

Co-ordinators Stephanie Robinson (XII Apostles) and Jenny Hampson and Helen Ahmed (Sacred Heart) produced stunning portfolios of pupils' work. The Warwick team was so impressed with the quality that they are using Stephanie's portfolio as a model for other schools in the country to follow.

The schools have linked with many local businesses, including PPG Industries, Salford SATRO, Leigh Centurions, Lancashire Publications, United Utilities, Pennington Flash and Connexions.

PPG human resource manager Steve McKeown, who hosted a visit by pupils from Sacred Heart, said: "The children presented their work at PPG following an earlier plant tour. They were extremely enthusiastic and professional in their presentation and we are delighted at this major achievement."

Leigh EAZ project director Alan Dutton said: "Raising achievement through links with industry has been one of the key targets of the Zone. I am thrilled two of our schools have achievement this important national award."

During the Leigh EAZ Arts & Writing celebration in June a presentation will take place at United Utilities' Hope Carr Barn, where the teachers will receive their highly deserved certificates.