A SCHOOL head told parents that as his governors bid for technology college status, a percentage of future pupils would be selected on their ability and aptitude.

Roger Eckton, of Beardwood High School, Blackburn, was speaking at the annual prizegiving.

He revealed that the result of the bid under the government's Specialist Schools' Programme would be announced in December.

Mr Eckton said that school security should be stepped up following the Cullen Report into the Dunblane tragedy and full support given to the campaign launched by the widow of murdered teacher Philip Lawrence .

He said: "Teachers, police and the majority of parents have always worked for these values. "It is a small minority of parents who do not subscribe to these shared values."

Mr Eckton told the audience he hoped that legislation would be introduced to ban the sale of all unnecessary knives and tighten video licensing and sales.

The head teacher also commented on the role of parents who were speaking out against the re-instatement of violent and difficult pupils.

He said: "For too long they have been the silent majority.

"They must make their voice heard loud and clear and continue to support sound discipline in our schools, especially while their children are part of the school community."

Guest of honour was Assistant Chief Constable for Lancashire, Tarrique Ghaffur.

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