A programme enabling state and independent schools to work together has been given a second-year funding increase.

The education partnership project between East Brighton College of Media Arts (COMART) in Whitehawk, Brighton, Falmer High School and independent school Brighton College in Eastern Road, Brighton, impressed in its first year.

This has led to an increased grant from the Department of Education and Skills.

The £46,000 award is the biggest in its category of the Government's Instep programme, which brings together students and staff from the state and independent sectors for joint activities.

Last year's project included team building, leadership, art, science and maths.

Students took part in a sailing competition, investigated the world of advanced robotics and researched images of emotion in a visual arts project based on the work of 20th Century engraver Kathe Kollwitz.

This year's activities will involve students from Years 7, 8, 9 and 10, with activities to include a history project studying people, culture and the environment.

Co-ordinator Julie Coultas, who is monitoring the project's educational attainment, said: "My assessment after the first year showed staff and students found the scheme very beneficial.

"Any negative preconceptions were overcome as the project proceeded and everyone is extremely pleased we can continue and will be able to do more this year."

Anthony Seldon, head of Brighton College, said: "There should be no educational apartheid. We have all learned a great deal and can now really build these partnerships."

COMART head Jill Clough said: "We have a tough task making the community realise our students have talent and ability.

"This partnership is developing into something which can help us achieve our ambitions."