CHILDREN from deprived areas in Trafford are to be given extra help with their education after the award of a £744,000 grant.

The grant will be used for study support, a voluntary learning activity which takes place outside normal school hours.

It aims to improve young peoples' motivation, build their self-esteem and help to raise their achievement. The grant was awarded by the New Opportunities Fund, and will be awarded over the next three years.

Study support sessions take place before school, during lunch times, after school, at weekends and during holidays. Schools eligible for money from the fund are those with a certain percentage of children on free school meals.

Trafford hopes to provide support in a wide range of areas, including art, sport, literacy, numeracy and homework opportunities.

The council will be liaising with various organisations and companies to make the most of the new money.

Trafford council cabinet member for lifelong learning, Cllr Peter Mitchell, said: "It is vital that we work with schools and other partners to give all our youngsters the best opportunities to support and reinforce their progress in school.

"I am really pleased with the range and variety of ways in which voluntary organisations, libraries, sports clubs and others are prepared to work together with our schools to provide attractive and interesting ways for children to learn and develop their skills.

"Our NOF bid was the biggest successful project, and the council will continue to seek extra resources to develop and expand these activities."

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