Cash-strapped schools across London are being given the chance to make lasting improvements to their facilities by winning a share of a £10,000 prize fund.

Decorating and DIY specialist, Leyland, has relaunched its popular Big School Makeover initiative, which will see three schools in the capital win thousands of pounds worth of paint, tools, and building materials to revamp the environment for their pupils.

One winning school will receive £5,000 to spend at any of Leyland’s 35 stores across the capital, while two runners-up will secure £2,500 worth of materials each.

Anyone can nominate any school within London for the prize, regardless of age group, up until September 30.

Ten finalists will then be selected and the three winners decided by public vote.

Martin Hastings, chief executive of Leyland, said: “We’re proud to launch our premier community initiative for a third consecutive year, helping to make tangible improvements to three schools in London.

“Big School Makeover always captures the imagination, with parents, grandparents, carers, teachers, and local residents keen to put their chosen school in the mix for the top prize.

“In previous years, we have seen more than 500 nominations and 10,000 votes, which demonstrates the passion people feel for schools.”

He added: “Everyone knows budgets are tight at all schools, so winning materials can make a tremendous difference.”

Previous winners have been Latchmere School and Malden Manor Primary School, both in Kingston, Surrey.

Latchmere was able to revamp classrooms and corridors, while Malden Manor refurbished its sports hall.

For more information on the initiative, click here.

Previous winners, Malden Manor Primary School