ST HELENS Council has successfully bid for £124,000 to fund out-of-school learning projects to help children develop their learning potential.

The council says that the three-year programme, funded by the Government, will be especially beneficial for low achievers and pupils with behavioural problems.

The money will now be used to appoint part-time study workers to provide homework support through a learning network of libraries, community and family centres centred around Four Acre, Moss Bank, Newton-le-Willows and Thatto Heath.

The scheme is aimed at eight to 14-year-olds and is being run across four high schools, 15 primaries and one special school. The High Schools, who will encourage pupils to use the centres and monitor progress, are Broadway High; Newton-le-Willows High; St Aelred's RC High and Sutton Community High. The Primary schools taking part are Carr Mill; Eaves; Newton-le-Willows; Nutgrove Methodist; Robins Lane; St Aidan's CE; St Austin's RC; St Mary's RC; St Matthew's RC; St Peter's CE; SS Peter and Paul RC; Sherdley; Sutton Manor; Thatto Heath and Wargrave. Penkford Special School is also included in the project. The council's library service will provide both book and technology resources, while the New Opportunities Fund have allowed some funding for lap-top computers so that facilities can be provided at the satellite community and family centres.

Councillor Andy Bowden, Executive Member for Education and Lifelong Learning, said: "The project will provide dedicated homework provision to run four nights a week in each area providing additional computer facilities to those pupils who do not have home access. A number of volunteers will also be trained and accredited to work in the study centres. It's a marvellous opportunity for pupils to increase their learning potential and offers vital support to those children who need the most help.