Schools will be used for a wider range of community activities

Out-of-school events for pupils, IT, childcare services and adult learning courses are among the new activities which will be held at school buildings.

The move is aimed at encouraging families to become more involved in their schools, says the county council.

More than �900,000 of government cash will fund the new services offered.

Councillor Tony Crabbe, executive member for schools, said: "It makes huge sense that school buildings and facilities are more fully used outside core school hours for the benefit of the community and pupils. "

In the future many school premises will remain open throughout the year from 0800 to 1800 GMT, a council spokesman said.

Headteachers, governors and councillors are expected to attend a launch about extending school facilities at Gosford Hill School on 22 February.