AN AMBITIOUS fundraising appeal has been launched at Archers Court School, Dover, to raise money to specialise in technology subjects. The school hopes to raise £50,000 by the end of August to get further funding from the government and secure the technology college status.

Head teacher Elaine Hamilton, who started at the school earlier this month, said: "I hope that our efforts will have a positive effect in the whole Dover community." Getting the specialist status for the school will mean more input into technology subjects - maths, science, information and communication technology (ICT) and design and technology.

In a letter to parents, Mrs Hamilton introduced the Archers Court Business Links Club, which she hopes will lead to stronger links between students and local enterprise. She said: "The short term aims of the partnership will be to raise funds necessary to make our bid for technology status, but I hope that by forging close links with local businesses, students - and ultimately the businesses themselves - will benefit."

An extensive development programme is already underway with a new sports hall being built next to the all-weather pitch and plans to increase the size of the school building being finalised. For more information on the sponsorship appeal, or the Business Link Club, contact Elaine Hamilton on 01304 820126.