ANDREW Bateman, the new head teacher at Moorhead High School, Accrington, believes the school has an exciting future.

Since he took over the running of the school in January Mr Bateman has been at the forefront of a series of improvements to both the school's buildings and educational environment.

And he hopes to open up the school to the community, making the facilities available for all to use.

He said: "The extension to the Cromwell building will provide the school with excellent facilities which I hope will be used extensively by the whole community.

"New science labs, art rooms, technology workshops, and a sports hall will enhance the refurbishment of the existing buildings.

"I hope to open the school facilities outside school hours so that the school can become a focal point for the whole community, with opportunities for learning being made available to everyone."

As part of the improvements to the school's curriculum Mr Bateman and his staff are introducing a number of new courses to provide students with opportunities for further success.

He said: "The number of vocational courses offered in the upper school is to be increased and partnerships with local colleges are also being established. Success outside the classroom is also developing with an increasing number of students being involved in community-based activities."

One of these is a forthcoming original musical production called Theseus. To be performed at the school over three nights in June, the cast features pupils from years seven to 10 and is a very much a team effort, with teachers collaborating on the story, music, and choreography.

And the high standard of the show's songs has resulted in the cast recording their parts professionally and committing them to tape.

He said: "Many people will have heard the school music groups at the recent Hyndburn Music Festival, where their contribution was outstanding. These students recently worked with a professional recording company to produce a CD which will go on sale in the next couple of weeks."

Mr Bateman has taught in Calderdale for the last 25 years. In January 1997 he moved to Calder High School as deputy head after holding senior positions at other schools in the area. A former mathematics teacher and head of special needs, Mr Bateman is married and has two teenage sons.