STAFF at fire-struck Lytchett Minster school are celebrating after beating off competition to win Arts College Status.

Just months after being hit by a devastating arson attack, the school has achieved special ranking and a funding boost worth over £100,000.

Thrilled headmaster Stuart Clark said: "We're absolutely delighted.

"Securing Arts College status will be a great boost to the work of the school, particularly in view of the difficulties we have experienced recently with the fire back in June."

Lytchett Minster School, near Poole, is one of 38 new specialist arts and sports establishments announced by Schools Standards Minister Estelle Morris yesterday.

The premises will receive a cash grant of £100,000 with an extra £123 per pupil, per year, for at least the next four years.

It will enable the school to offer a wider range of opportunities in music, art, drama, design and communication, and help raise general standards across the whole curriculum.

In addition, the school plans to share its good fortune with the community. Mr Clark explained: "This won't just benefit our students. As part of the initiative, we will be working with staff and students in a number of local schools to provide opportunities that otherwise would not be possible.

"We also want the community to benefit from the programme of professional arts events we will be bringing to the school."

In order to win special status, Lytchett Minster had to raise £50,000 in sponsorship, prepare a four-year development plan, and make provision to involve the wider area.

Announcing the result of the latest round of applications, Estelle Morris said: "The schools will be expected to develop innovative projects in their specialist areas.

"They will also aim to increase motivation and success across the whole curriculum, leading to higher standards for all pupils."