EDUCATION chiefs are in a race against time to bring Bolton business on board their latest flagship venture to raise standards in schools. They need pledges of support from local companies interested in supporting a pioneering Education Action Zone in the town. The help could be cash or in kind but, if they approve Bolton's bid, the Government will more than double the amount pledged by local firms.

Sponsorship and Government grants worth £3 million over three years will be ploughed back into Breightmet and Tonge schools to boost educational achievement.

Education chiefs have until mid April to raise up to £250,000 worth of support and believe business backing is crucial to the success of the bid, which is supported by Bolton and Bury Chamber.

Tough

They recognise businesses facing a tough time may find it difficult to make cash donations but have called on them to help in other ways.

Products, such as food for breakfast clubs, would be welcome - as would expertise or time.

All offers of help will be costed up and, if Bolton are successful, the Government will match the final sum pound for pound and add this to an annual base grant of £500,000 for three years.

Donations made through the Single Step Gift Aid Scheme attract significant financial advantages because they are deductible against income or corporation tax.

Education chiefs say local commerce will ultimately benefit from the scheme because it will help produce better skilled school leavers and give local firms an image boost.

Education Action Zones are at the forefront of Government moves to create partnerships between schools and the business community to tackle underachievement in deprived areas.

Partners

Wigan, Blackburn, Salford and Trafford have already set up EAZs which are run by a forum of partners.

These may include significant sponsors, charities, private education companies, voluntary organisations, groups of parents etc.

Anyone who feels they can help should contact Deputy Director of Education, Terry Piggott.

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