A SCHOOL has been praised for its excellent out-of-hours programme.

Franche First School, Kidderminster, has been recognised by Education Extra - which supports such activities.

The school caters for more than 600 children in its out-of-hours Franche 726 club.

It includes computers, dance, football, swimming and drama.

Education Extra has launched a manifesto, backed by more than 30 organisations, to promote out-of-school-hours learning.

Associate director Mike Walton said: "Although much has been done to put money, resources and training into out-of-school-hours, many of our most deprived children, schools and communities still find it difficult to get funds, training and resources to deliver this."