Disadvantaged children get £2.3 million to help them make the grade 

Projects aimed at giving children and young people from disadvantaged backgrounds across the capital a better chance of leaving school with good qualifications have received a £2.3 million funding boost from London Councils.

Eight schemes have been commissioned by London Councils including ones aimed at encouraging children not to play truant from school, helping students achieve basic skills including reading, and supporting parents to play a bigger role in their child's education.

Among the projects to receive funding is Ebony Education Community Interest Company which will be given £251,268 to provide children aged between five and 16 with extra help with maths, English and science. It will also provide a special programme to help parents improve their child's performance at school.