Schools support service launched

A County Durham council has received almost £100,000 to help improve the education of disadvantaged children.

Darlington Council will spend the money on helping children make the most of their education by building closer links between school and home.

The authority has received £96,000 funding for three years from the charity School Home Support.

Two support workers have been recruited to work with schools in Branksome, Mount Pleasant and Holy Family.

They will help schools reduce truancy rates, improve behaviour and increase pupils' self esteem and achievements.

If the scheme is successful the authority hopes to extend it throughout the borough.

Early intervention

Councillor Chris McEwan, cabinet member for children's services, said: "By strengthening those links we are helping to give some of the most vulnerable children a better start and make their schooling a positive experience."

A spokesman for the School-Home Support charity said: "Education offers disadvantaged children and young people a real chance to improve their future lives - yet the difficulties they face at home can prevent them making the most of their time at school.

"We provide experienced workers, based in schools, who help children, young people and their families to overcome the barriers that stand in the way of learning.

"Our work is based on three key principles - early intervention, child centred practice and a partnership approach to working with parents."