Two Dover schools have been granted funding to replace or refurbish their most dilapidated buildings.

Dover Grammar School for Boys and Barton Junior School are the only two schools in the district to have been awarded the funding under the Priority School Building Programme (PSBP).

The junior school, in Barton Road, dates back more than a century. Head teacher David Meades said: “We are absolutely delighted. The school buildings started being built in 1898. Hopefully we get something that meets the needs of the children of the 21st century.”

The PSBP focuses on schools that need significant repair.

It ensures at least one building will be refurbished or reconstructed per school, depending on whether the buildings meet its criteria

When schools apply they specify which of their buildings need the most urgent attention.

Programme leaders will meet with the two schools in April to plan the work, look at any site issues, and review the best method and timescale.

The schools will not know exactly what they are getting until visits have been made.

The boys’ grammar, in Astor Avenue, is also celebrating. A spokeswoman said: “We are delighted – it will be a capital investment that will improve the learning facilities within the school.

“But we have no indication until they come out and undertake a survey as to what buildings they will be dealing with.

“It could be a refurbishment or an extra block.”

MP Charlie Elphicke said: “It is great we have secured extra funding for these two Dover schools.

“This money will fully refurbish or completely rebuild older buildings and give the schools state of the art facilities. Our children deserve the best.

“Barton Junior and Dover Grammar are both great schools and this funding will help ensure they get even better.”