CHARD'S Holyrood School will become a specialist Technology College this September, after a £650,000 bid was approved by the government.

Charles Clarke, Secretary of State for Education, yesterday announced approval for Holyrood's application to become a regional centre for excellence in maths, science, information communication technology (ICT), and design technology.

The money will go on new staff, more training, and new equipment, to deliver up to the minute teaching with technology relevant to modern working life.

Developments will benefit every student at the school, according to headteacher Maurice Hicks, as well as nine local primary schools, and the wider community through adult and family learning opportunities.

He said: "I'm absolutely delighted. The staff now know and they are thrilled. It will make a huge difference to the school and what we can provide."