Schools in Sussex have been awarded more than £15 million to spend on building improvements.

Education Secretary Ruth Kelly announced yesterday that West Sussex would get £12 million to fund a reorganisation of schools in Shoreham and Lancing.

East Sussex will get a further £3.6 million for the co-location of Grove Park Special School and Beacon Specialist Sports College and Training School.

The money came from a funding pot of more than £1 billion dished out yesterday to schools across the country.

Ms Kelly said: "This funding is another big step towards our goal of ensuring that all young people are being taught in buildings that can enhance their learning and provide the facilities that they and their teachers need to reach their full potential.

"Because of our commitment to improve schools and classrooms, a legacy of chronic under-funding is being addressed. Over the next 15 years, we will rebuild or refurbish every secondary school and at least half of all primary schools.

"Through record levels of investment, we are ensuring that we are meeting the urgent needs of schools today, while also ensuring that we have high quality schools for the future."

A consultation on schools and services for children in Adur has already been launched by West Sussex County Council.

A booklet is being distributed to seek the views of parents, schools, governors, teachers and support staff who work in schools.

Copies are also being sent to local councils, the Learning and Skills Council, church dioceses, early years providers, community groups and others.

The consultation will be looking at issues including the organisation of primary schools, education and training opportunities for teenagers and the development of services for children in the area.

It is expected that any major changes would be introduced before September 2008.

Mark Dunn, West Sussex County Council cabinet member for children's services, said: "During the middle of last year, I went to a meeting in Shoreham which was really depressing, we had badly behaved children and an apathetic community.

"But hard work and leadership by the council, the headteachers and local police has really helped everyone and local people should be really proud of themselves.

"This money is well deserved, this is the sort of thing that's meant to happen.

"I am so pleased I am jumping for joy.

"The money will be spent on the infrastructure for improving the life chances of all local children."