BURY education chief Mr Harold Williams has joined more than 100 of his counterparts from around the country to discuss raising standards in schools.

The two-day conference, being held at Warwick University, ends today (Friday).

Also attending the event as a keynote speaker is Education Minister Stephen Byers, the man responsible for raising school standards nationally.

Mr Williams said: "The White Paper has set out a very clear agenda for local authorities to challenge and support schools in raising standards.

"The conference provides a real chance for serious discussion between education officers on how best to tackle the tasks set by Government for local education authorities and it is important Bury is part of this discussion process."

He added: "It is only recently Mr Byers came to Bury.

"On that occasion, he heard what we had to say about the high standards we have achieved and also pledged his support for our campaign to receive additional funding.

"This is funding which we would argue should be rightly ours and is essential if we are to maintain the excellence that has been achieved in our schools.

"I will be listening with interest to what the Minister has to say and will be making sure Bury's voice continues to be heard," concluded Mr Williams.

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