SCHOOLS in South Craven have benefited from a £4 million package of improvements carried out at school premises across North Yorkshire during the summer.

County council contractors tackled roof, window and boiler replacement schemes at nearly 50 sites.

And they undertook major works including extensions and new classrooms and kitchens.

Projects included the provision of two additional classrooms at Glusburn Community Primary School, plus new classrooms and improvements to existing teaching areas at Cowling Primary.

Council bosses say that overall this year, the authority has allocated almost £12 million to improving schools, including £1m committed to further work during the remainder of the school year.

"We are responsible for some 350 schools – many of them small and with ageing or historic buildings," said County Councillor Patrick Mulligan, executive member for schools.

"The funding we have provided from Government allocations cannot address all our school maintenance and modernisation needs, as these are considerable, but the works will make a significant difference.

"We want all our children and young people to enjoy the highest standards in teaching and learning and these works will help our schools continue to be fit for purpose to deliver a 21st-century curriculum.

"The schemes will improve existing provision as well as create additional school places to meet present and future need.

"Our overall allocation this year to improve school sites will not only maintain the fabric of buildings but also invest in upgrading facilities such as science labs, design technology, art, music and drama spaces to support teaching and learning, as well as improving school kitchens and other areas. The cash is also being invested in building and site improvements to support school mergers and make split-site campuses work better."