YOUNGSTERS from ethnic minorities will be given a greater chance of success, thanks to a new English course.

Bury is playing a leading role in the North West, under a scheme to train teachers in teaching English as an additional language.

Money to run the course has come from the Teacher training Agency, following a successful bid by the council's Curriculum and Language Access Service (CLAS).

Bury is running the project in partnership with Leeds local education authority and the Northern Association of Support Services for Equality and Achievement,

The scheme began on Saturday with the first course, led by primary project manager Melanie Griffin, held during an all-day conference at the New Kershaw Centre in Bury. Councillor Steve Perkins, executive member for lifelong learning, said: "We have built up a wealth of expertise in Bury when it comes to training teachers to teach English as an additional language, and it is good to know that that will now benefit not only our own borough but also other areas in the North West."

Teachers from authorities across the region will be able to study for a post-graduate certificate in bilingualism, accredited by Birmingham University.

Coun Perkins added: "The main objective of the course is to help improve the performance of ethnic-minority pupils in our schools.

"By increasing the professional knowledge, understanding and skills of those teaching English as an additional language, that will undoubtedly help these youngsters to have a greater grasp of English, which can only aid their studies and improve their prospects."