WINCHESTER and Chandler’s Ford MP Steve Brine has given a warm welcome to increased school support for children from service families and youngsters in care.

Prime Minister David Cameron recently announced the extension of a scheme to help disadvantaged youngsters.

The programme, called the Pupil Premium, offers extra cash to schools to help new pupils settle in, cope with stress and keep up with their classmates.

It means more money to schools near military bases where there is a high turnover of children. In Winchester district, this includes South Wonston and Harestock primary schools plus Henry Beaufort comprehensive.

In 2014-15, the funding will rise to £2.5bn across the country, with £1,300 for primary pupils, £935 for secondary and £1,900 for all children in care. The scheme’s funding will be extended to 2018.

In Winchester and Chandler’s Ford, disadvantaged pupils will receive £2.1m in 2014-15, says Mr Brine.

The MP said: “This is excellent news for disadvantaged pupils and their families across Winchester & Chandler’s Ford and will give local schools the support they need to ensure that every child, regardless of their background, can fulfil their potential.”