A PIONEERING scheme that will see two schools in Darlington provide more services to pupils, families and the wider community was launched over the weekend.

A family fun day took place on Saturday at Hummersknott School and Language College, in Edinburgh Drive, to encourage people to find out more about the extended schools initiative.

Under the scheme Hummersknott and Skerne Park Primary School, in Ribble Drive, will provide a wider range of services, including adult learning, childcare, parenting support and access to information technology.

Darlington Borough Council received £261,000 from the Department for Education and Skills to launch the project.

The authority will work with the schools to enhance evening classes and community sport programmes.

The schools are the first in Darlington to offer after-school activities and better support under the extended schools initiative.