The first media arts college in the Midlands is almost ready to launch, with nearly all the funding in place to help Maryhill High School in Kidsgrove bid for specialist status.

Maryhill wants to become a training ground for the next generation of journalists, radio presenters and sales reps.

It is now just £13,000 short of reaching the £50,000 target but should have funds in place, courtesy of the Specialist Schools Trust.

Project officer Leigh Preece said: "Our specialism bid will be made in March 2004 and we should have news of the outcome in June/July 2004 and start delivering our specialism in September 2004."

It will bring newspaper editing, website design, video diaries, radio broadcasts and tips on customer care to the school curriculum.

Maryhill could also become a key player in re-training people made redundant from local industries.

Winning specialist status would trigger a £100,000 capital grant from the Government, enabling it to create a media production base with interview facilities and a radio station.

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