MAJOR changes have taken place at Bedale High School and more lie ahead, people were told at the annual presentation evening.

Headteacher Graham Turner was introducing Vale of York MP and Shadow Education Minister Anne McIntosh, who presented awards and trophies to students.

Mr Turner said efforts had been made to improve the school buildings in a number of areas and that work was continuing.

Along with improvements to the sports hall, changing areas and creation of a floodlit multi-games area, the main entrance has been improved, toilets refurbished and catering and menus improved.

More computers and laptops have been made available to students in English, science and information technology, the music and art block will soon reopen after major refurbishment and immediately after Christmas, work will start on new bus bays in nearby Benkhill Drive.

Paths alongside the bays will incorporate a cycle route in the hope that more students will ride to school.

Mr Turner revealed that the school is working with architects on plans to redevelop the technology block and it is anticipated that by 2008, there will be fully-integrated rooms featuring more modern technology.

He said the school and its supporters had worked hard to raise £50,000 needed to apply for specialist status in humanities.

The bid is being considered and it is hoped to have the status from September next year.