A SEARCH for educationally talented youngsters in the county has begun.

The More Able, Gifted and Talented national project has been running for a decade and headteachers in the county have been invited to nominate pupils for the scheme.

Those selected will have the chance to hone their skills at a special national summer school in addition to others organised in the district. The National Academy will take the top five per cent achievers aged nine to14 to further their studies.

Julien Kramer, director of education at Worcestershire County Council, said: "This scheme has played a significant part in raising standards in Worcestershire over the last five years .

"We've got some outstanding children and young people in our schools.

"Hundreds have benefited from the project and we would urge all parents to support their children in their endeavours or ask their head teacher about becoming involved."