REDNOCK SCHOOL in Dursley has announced plans to serve the wider community by becoming an Extended School.

The initiative will provide a range of services and facilities in addition to the normal term-time delivery of mainstream lessons and activities.

It means that pupils, their families and the wider community will be able to benefit from the school's extensive facilities.

Stroud MP David Drew and Gloucestershire County Council director of education Jo Davidson made keynote speeches at the launch.

Both emphasised the importance of the initiative and the need for agencies and community groups to work together for common goals.

The launch was attended by more than 50 invited representatives from organisations.

There was a positive response to the presentations a lot of support was shown for the Extended School concept in Cam and Dursley.

Rednock headteacher David Alexander was very happy with the launch and the way the concept had been welcomed by groups in the community.

Mr Alexander said: "It was a really positive step forward. I feel that the future is very promising for the community with people keen to work together on this initiative."

Several schools have already piloted the Extended School initiative across the country and a great number of benefits have been identified.

For students and schools:

* Higher levels of achievement

* Increased student motivation and self esteem

* Specialist support to meet the wider needs of students

* Additional facilities and equipment

* Enhanced partnership working with the community and better school security

* Easier access to essential services for staff

For families:

* Improvements in child behaviour and social skills

* Greater parental involvement in children's learning

* More opportunities for adult education and family learning

* Greater availability of specialist support for families

For communities:

* Better access to essential services

* Improved local availability of sports, arts and other facilities

* Better supervision of children outside school hours

* Closer relationships with the school

* Career development opportunities in the area