Colston's School in Bristol is planning to mark its 300th anniversary next year with the launch of a foundation aimed at funding more bursaries and widening pupil access.

The project was announced by headmaster Peter Fraser at the school's annual Prize Day yesterday, where he reported strong pupil recruitment and a £1.5 million refurbishment programme.

He said additional bursaries would be the greatest legacy of the anniversary.

He said: "Such a vision reflects our desire to ensure that Colston's remains a broad based and inclusive school.

"In addition to the bursaries that are presently funded by the Hilborne and Newport Foundations, I am delighted to announce that the Old Colstonians have committed significant funding in support of bursaries from 2010. This generosity will I hope be mirrored by the extended school community."