A £1m Government scheme has been launched to improve schooling in deprived areas of east Durham.

Easington, Seaham and Peterlee have all been declared Education Action Zones by the Department for Education and Employment, entitling underprivileged schools to a total of £1m a year for the next three to five years.

Following the launch yesterday, 750 teachers, teachers assistants and school support staff took part in a training day designed to help teachers increase standards and aspirations among the area's often demoralised children.

Speaking after the launch, project director Ian Kershaw, said: "This zone status means we can help raise aspirations and expectations in 27 projects across 22 nursery, primary and secondary schools.

"Some young people in the area have low levels of self-esteem and confidence, so it is important to raise their aspirations.

"Working in partnership with Durham local education authority (LEA), the Education Action Zone expects to help schools make a difference to the quality of education for young people over the next three to five years.

"Building new traditions is the key to the future for the lives of young people in the 21st Century."

This week's teacher training sessions include workshops in boosting the confidence of pupils through positive language, and lessons to increase literacy levels, and motivation.

Mr Kershaw said: "The enthusiasm of the headteachers and staff in the zones' schools is impressive.

"I am delighted to be working with people who are so committed to raising standards and want to ensure that everyone works in a can-do atmosphere."

Dr Ray Paget, a neuro- psychologist and leading authority in brain-based learning, organised the training day in Peterlee.

He said: "The future of these children is in our hands. We have been given the chance to make a difference in our schools in Peterlee - let us use it."

The Government will provide £750,000 a year for the education action zones, while the remaining £250,000 will come from local industry and charities