Girls' school gets science specialist status

The all-girls school, which is the first specialist science school in the borough, will now become a centre of scientific excellence for the benefit of its own pupils and for other schools in the area.

As a result of its new-found status the school will have four high-tech science labs installed with the latest technology, and links will also be forged with science employers in the borough including Guy's and St Thomas' Hospitals.

"We are delighted to have been awarded specialist science status" said headteacher Irene Bishop. "We intend to transform the educational experience of our students so that all enjoy the highest aspirations and a sense of their potential, not just in science but across all subjects. Our collaboration with local schools will build on the work we're already doing in our leading edge partnership programme."

St Saviour's and St Olave's School is sponsored by the Woodard Corporation, The St Olave's and St Saviour's Foundation and The Chartered Surveyors Livery Company with other support from the Worshipful Company of Dyers. Partner schools in the area include Aylwin Secondary School, Beormund, Boutcher, Cathedral and Joseph Lancaster primary schools.

To apply for specialist status, schools must raise £50,000 in private sector sponsorship and draw up a four-year school and community development plan to raise standards, increase provision and encourage take-up in their specialist subjects.