DOZENS of schools in north east Essex are set to get a share of a �600,000 funding pot to help disadvantaged children.

The Department for Education grant, to be distributed by Essex County Council’s Funding Team, is aimed at helping the children make the transition from primary to secondary school using special courses.

The courses will allow 48 schools to familiarise themselves with their new pupils and their educational needs.

Schools in Colchester, Tendring and Briantree set to get a share of the pot include Alec Hunter Humanities College, Clacton Coastal Academy, Harwich & Dovercourt High School, Hedingham Secondary School and Sixth Form, Lexden Springs School, Maltings Academy, New Rickstones Academy, Notley High School & Braintree Sixth Form, St Benedict’s College, St Helena School, Tabor science college, Tendring Technology College, The Colne Community School and College, The Gilberd School, The Stanway School, The Thomas Lord Audley School and Thurstable School.

Stephen Castle, Essex’s head of education, said “Our aim is to provide as much help and support as possible for children so they can achieve the best they can in our education system.”