More than a dozen schools in Essex where pupils are getting low GCSE results are set to benefit from a major cash injection.

Essex has been handed nearly £1,620,000 to help meet the needs of 14 “National Challenge” schools.

These schools have been targeted to help them see 30 per cent of pupils getting five A* – C grades at GCSE level, including mathematics and English, by 2011.

The schools include Thomas, Lord Audley and Alderman Blaxill and Sir Charles Lucas Arts College, in Colchester, Bishops Park College and Colbayns High School, in Clacton, and The Harwich School.

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