INTERNET giant Cisco is today throwing its weight behind the ground-breaking bid for Reading's first university school.

The multi-national company is pledging its support for the proposed east Reading school, which will offer pupils aged 11 and over academic and skills-based education.

Cisco joins Microsoft and Reading and Wokingham borough councils in backing the bid, which is being led by Reading East MP, Rob Wilson, Reading University, Reading School and Reading College, and is aimed at easing growing pressure on school places.

Cisco's UK education director, Mike Morris, said: "Cisco is delighted to support this bid for a new school being championed by Rob Wilson.

"We believe there is a need to balance academic and technical learning in schools, giving young people more opportunities to find the right educational pathway for them. This school can achieve great things for the community."

Mr Morris said it is important school leavers have a wide range of options, from university and college to apprenticeships and full-time skilled work, and believes the proposed school can deliver this.

The company, based at Reading's Green Park, has a long history of supporting education, including the internationally accredited Cisco Networking Academy courses it provides universities, colleges and schools

Cisco's experience of developing curricula and its continued success in the ultra-competitive hi-technology global market makes it a strong partner to provide pupils with academic excellence and skills-based learning geared for Thames Valley's 21st Century industry.

Mr Wilson said: "I am thrilled that another blue chip company that is committed to Reading has thrown its weight and its considerable expertise behind this venture.

"We are putting together a school that will create fantastic opportunities for all the children that attend and that will insist on the highest possible standards."

The Tory MP said he hopes to make further announcements about more "world class companies" soon and said discussions are continuing with the Department of Education, New Schools Network and Baker-Dearing Educational Trust, a charity promoting the Coalition's new flagship University Technical Colleges.

A site has also been chosen and negotiations with its landowner are under way. A full proposal is expected later in the spring and Mr Wilson is planning to host question and answer sessions with parents and others in the community.