25 schools in Northern Ireland are set to receive huge investments, after they were successful in the School Enhancement Programme.

The investment, of up to £60 million, will allow the selected schools to improve and expand their existing facilities.

The 25 selected schools include 13 primary schools, six post-primary schools, and seven special schools.

Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson Karen Mullan said: "This is hugely welcome news for the 25 schools that have been successful in the School Enhancement Programme."

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She added: "Projects valued at between £500,000 and £4 million can be approved so it has made a massive difference to the schools estate over recent years. Today's announcement means that 25 projects will now move through the business case, design and planning stages. These projects will attract a potential £60million investment which will greatly improve and expand the existing facilities in the schools."

Some schools were not successful in their bids for investment, but Mrs Mullan has urged the staff and pupils not to be "disheartened".

The School Enhancement Programme was established by former Sinn Féin Education Minister John O'Dowd to fund building and improvement works at schools in order to provide the best possible accommodation for pupils.

(CM)