A LOTTERY bid could lead to Burnley's Towneley High School becoming a centre for excellence in music.

The news was announced to parents and pupils by headteacher David Hinks at the school's presentation night.

He praised the achievements of the school's brass band, saying: "In the four years they have been in existence their achievements are the stuff of dreams. Their dedication to excellence means they are a great force in the North West of England and have twice competed in the nationals.

"We have put a lottery bid in to allow us to become a centre of excellence."

In a candid speech Mr Hinks said: "Let me talk about last year's year 11. Year 11 reserved their best until their last, I'm sure they will forgive me if I say their seven, eight , nine and ten years were not outstanding.

"But in year 11 it finally began to happen and they grew into the senior year. A special word of thanks must go to last year's senior student team. "They were, without doubt, one of the best ever. Indeed, I will go so far as to say they were the best."

The year had the lowest academic profile in the history of the school and, based on ability, was targeted to achieve 12 per cent five or more grade A-C GCSEs.

But Mr Hinks said: "The year got 22.3 per cent and that is 86 per cent above the local education authority target. That Thursday morning the results came out was like watching a whole series of personal bests.

"These were amazing results and nothing in 34 years in education has given me greater pleasure. All deserve great congratulations."

Mr Hinks paid tribute to Rebecca Marshall who died two weeks into the new school year in an accident at her grandmother's home. An inquest found a gas powered water heater was to blame for the tragedy.

He said: "The year began as usual with the arrival of the new year seven. Then the tragic news hit us that one of our year 11s had died. The next three weeks were very difficult yet year 11 united in a very special way. A unity they were never to lose and a unity which I'm sure contributed to them having their best year at Towneley."

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