In pictures: Keeping schools in Russia's provinces afloat

Schoolchildren in Pskov, north-west Russia

These children in the Pskov region of north-west Russia are lucky to be at school. The school was set to be closed by the authorities but their parents battled to keep it open - and won. (Photos and text by Dmitry Markov)

Girl at school in Pskov northwest Russia

During the Soviet era rural areas were heavily populated and the school catered for 200 pupils. Today there are just 40. This girl is taught one-on-one by several teachers because she is the only pupil in her class.

Boy in class in school in northwest Russia

This class is much more lively - with as many as five pupils at one time.

Steam coming off sausages at a school canteen in Russia.

A hearty steaming hot bowl of soup and bread is prepared for the children's lunch.

Dog and pupils at school in northwest Russia

Not all is wolfed down by the pupils, though - some ends up in the stomach of the resident dog. Some children bring in their own lunch to school.

This pupil takes a break from lessons in the cloakroom. The decor dates back to the Soviet era, when flower wall paintings were very popular.

Boys being taight joinery and carpentry in a Russian school

Schoolchildren have woodwork lessons, where they are taught joinery and carpentry.

Boys having a snow fight after school in northwest Russia

When lessons are over and it is time to go home, there is no school bus - so these boys have to make the hour-long journey on foot. A snow fight helps pass the time.

Boy doing homework in the living room in a Russian house

School may be over, but there is still homework to do. This boy concentrates on his studies as he sits next to his father in the living room. Then it is bedtime.