Thousands of pounds is being spent by a Canvey school on dedicated students who want to study more.

Castle View School headteacher Russell Sullivan has told how a group of students have led the way and inspired others to take up "minority classes" through an internet lesson provider.

The three year ten pupils - Alanna Day, Danielle Tub-Whittington and Natasha Causton - have taken it upon themselves to study for a classical civilisation AS level, two years before college.

The youngsters, all aged 15, are now halfway through their course at the school in Meppel Avenue, Canvey and have inspired a further 41 youngsters to take up a GCSE in archaeology.

The online lessons, delivered and prepared by college lecturer Lyn Bright, cost £225 and the school pays the fee.

Mr Sullivan said: "I think the thirst young people have for knowledge is underestimated."

Published Thursday January 8, 2004

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