We know education is one of the best routes out of poverty, but often children from low-income families face extra challenges reaching their potential at school.

Cleves School, in partnership with Oatlands School and Manby Lodge Infant School, has been awarded a two-year grant of £57,600 to support their most vulnerable families and strengthen the connection between these families and each of their schools.

The grant will fund part-time Home School Link Worker, Nickie Tewkesbury, who will assist parents and pupils facing challenges that may hinder school attendance. Nickie will dedicate one day a week to each school, providing targeted support to 96 Elmbridge families over the course of the year.

The initiative aims to not only improve school attendance but also enhance educational attainment, which is expected to have a significant positive impact on lifetime earnings.

Nickie Tewkesbury says, "I am really looking forward to working with Cleves, Oatlands and Manby Lodge schools to support the children and their families within the local community. We are very lucky to have a range of local charities and agencies that enable us to support our families in need and I am keen to make connections with these organisations and forge good working relationships that will enhance the school experience for our families."

In addition to this support, all three schools are holders of a Walton Charity Opportunities Fund which supports children and young people from families on a low-income with learning and other enrichment activities. Last year we provided £75,000 to 23 schools through our Opportunities Funds.