DERBY High School has proved itself more than a class act after chalking up a unique educational achievement.

For it has become the first in the country to receive specialist schools status in two subjects. The Radcliffe Road school is now ripe to become a centre of excellence in the twin subjects of science and arts.

With ambitious plans either for a total refurbishment or a new school building, a bright future beckons. Derby will get an immediate £100,000 and £120,000 annually over the next three years to allow it to achieve its aims.

Derby had to raise £50,000 in sponsorship. Head teacher Mrs Alyson Byrne, who took up her post in January last year, said: "We were very fortunate to gain the backing of the Ogden Trust which is run by a billionaire. We were told that for every £1,000 we raised, then they would match that sum. This was a terrific boost for us."

Additional support came from the Earl of Derby, school lead partner O2 and Greenmount-based Cormar Carpets. Their contributions were allied to fund-raising throughout the school. Mrs Byrne added: "Science will present huge challenges and opportunities to this generation. But at the same time, the pupils also require other qualities such as imagination, creativity and the ability to express themselves, to communicate and to empathise."

She is delighted that the school's decision to seek specialist status on two fronts, rather than one, has been vindicated.

"We knew we were probably taking a little risk. But I'm very committed to it and I feel it will have significant benefits and make more of the talents of our pupils.

"We will be able to offer a greater range of courses as regards science and arts, with a new course for new year seven pupils. A new GCSE science course will also be introduced and there will also be more extra-curricular opportunities available.

Derby High School, with 950 pupils, is also involved in a private finance capital project. Mrs Byrne said: "This involves either a total refurbishment of the school or the rebuilding of it on the same site. We should find out in March whether we have been successful. If we get the approval, then the new building should be operational by 2006."

Mrs Byrne concluded: "With our Specialist School status in science and arts and the PFI plan, then as far as I'm concerned the sky's the limit for us in terms of the opportunities this will bring."

After the initial three-year specialist status has expired, Derby can apply again for re-designation.