ADULT education at a Leigh high school is booming after it has doubled its number of courses in the last year.

Westleigh High School has increased its number of evening adult courses from five to 10 in the last 12 months with 65 students on its books.

The Westleigh Lane school is also launching a "back to work" day-time programme in March which will cover skills to help long-term unemployed find a job.

The programme will include computer skills, CV writing and other aspects such as confidence building.

Darren Gray, from Leigh, who is doing a computer course, said: “I was at a low ebb personally before I heard about the computer course being run at Westleigh.

"The atmosphere was very welcoming from the minute I walked in.

"It was a really accepting environment and we had great comradeship among ourselves.

"I have been unable to find suitable employment due to my lack of computer skills so I am hoping to get back on track now.”

The school is running courses on computers, creative writing, beauty therapy, guitar and floristry.

Community manager at the school Petra Wilcockson said: “Westleigh is fully committed to its adult education programme which we run in partnership with Wigan Council.

"We believe the strength of the community is integral to the success of the school.

"By raising the skills and aspirations of the community, we are ultimately creating better outcomes for our students."

For more information about enrolling on the courses contact the school on 01942 767693 or or e-mail adulteducation@westleigh.wigan.sch.uk.