CUMBRIAN schools have received a slice of £243,000 to help struggling pupils catch-up with maths and literacy.

The Government money, formally handed over this week, is designed to help children who have not reached the expected level by the time they leave primary school.

Schools have each been given a £500 ‘catch up premium’ per pupil to provide help such as small-group tuition at lunchtime or after school, holiday support to deliver intensive catch-up over a short period and extra resources including tutor services, computer-based learning or online support.

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg announced the funding last September and £74,000 will be given to schools in the South Lakes alone.

Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron said: “This money will make a huge difference to students across the South Lakes and Cumbria and will make sure that we’re not leaving any children behind.

“We are lucky enough to have some of the best schools in the country in our area and this extra funding will ensure that every student gets a chance to benefit from that.

“This additional support will help to fund catch-up classes and personal tuition for those pupils that are struggling so their chances of success are increased rather than letting them fall behind further.”

Just five per cent of pupils who do not achieve Level 4 in both English and maths at Key Stage 2 go on to achieve five GCSEs at A* to C, including English and maths.