IT is double success for a Frankley school which is set to receive a slice of Government cash to help disadvantaged pupils and has scooped a cash prize for its truancy-busting efforts.

Frankley Community High School, in New Street, has been selected to host a two-year pilot scheme to provide in and out-of -hours activities including computer and music classes.

The programme, Pupil Learning Credits, has been launched in a green paper which will eventually target money at 260 secondary schools nationwide.

Frankley's school is on the list with 30 others for the pilot scheme which starts in September.

Nationally, the scheme will initially benefit 63,000 pupils, aged 11 to 14.

The Government's education and employment secretary, David Blunkett, said: "We recognise not all parents can afford to pay for the kinds of opportunities -- which can enrich and add depth to learning -- that many more advantaged pupils and communities take for granted.

"The opportunities could include adventure activities, additional support in the classroom or out-of-school activities."

The school has also been given £8,000 after finishing in the top eleven schools in the West Midlands after leading the way in the drive to cut truancy.

Headteacher Clive Owen said: "I am absolutely delighted with improvements in attendance in the school.

"This has been a combined effort working with families and pupils to enhance the importance of attending school."