Two schools have been told they will be getting cash for new buildings as part of a £2 billion government scheme.

The High Weald Academy in Cranbrook and nearby Benenden Primary School will both be rebuilt under the Priority Schools Building Programme, it was announced today.

There has been a long running campaign at Benenden for a new school. In December some 50 parents staged a march. Some of the buildings date back to the 17th century.

The crumbling High Weald Academy, formerly Angley School, in Cranbrook recently had to demolish one of its buildings as it was unsafe and has drawn up plans for anything up to six new buildings.

Education secretary Nicky Morgan said: "I’m delighted to announce funding for Benenden Church of England Primary and High Weald Academy through the Priority Schools’ Building Programme."

School minister David Laws said: "School buildings that aren't up to scratch unfairly hold our children and young people back. Every child deserves the opportunity to achieve their full potential, and improving High Weald will make sure that many more children in Cranbrook and Benenden receive a good education."

Maidstone and the Weald MP Helen Grant (Con) said: "I’ve been working closely with the Secretary of State on the school funding issue, and I’m thrilled High Weald Academy will also receive the funding they need as part of the programme. I’d like to pay tribute to everyone involved - the staff, parents, students and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to bring these campaigns to a successful conclusion.”

Jasper Gerard, parliamentary campaigner for the Lib Dems, added: "High Weald and Benenden badly need to upgrade their facilities. In Benenden children are having to move between multiple sites, wasting lesson time. In High Weald many of the buildings are falling apart."