What is it, and when does it start?
This important county wide project launched in September 2004, aims to improve the educational attainment and life chances of young people in care. Young people are referred by their Life Chances teacher, their social worker or their school and attend an on-going programme, delivered over each academic year, until year 11. They receive support with Numeracy, Literacy and ICT, as well as challenging and exciting holiday experiences and guidance from a Connexions Personal Advisor
Who is it for, and what will they do?
Eighty children in public care will be identified from across the county:
- Year 5 – induction to the programme
- Year 6 – support with SATs (Standard Assessment Tests); moving from primary to secondary school
- Year 7 – settling in to new school; Personal, Social and Health Education; Citizenship, basic introduction to Careers
- Year 8 – preparing for year 9 choices, more Careers
- Year 9 – support with SATs (Standard Assessment Tests); option choices for Key Stage 4
- Year 10 – organising coursework, preparing for work experience, career planning
- Year 11 – support with exams, revision, career and transition planning, training to be a mentor
- Post-16 – being a mentor
- The Personal Education Plan process will form the focus for children and professionals to plan for, reflect on, and learn from their experiences – supported by the Life Chances Team, working with other practitioners.
- Career Plans will build on participant's learning on the project, work experience, and careers education programmes back in their school – supported by Connexions Personal Advisers.
- Individual children will benefit from the enthusiastic support of their carers, social workers, teachers and significant others
This is a year on year project. Once children start they will be encouraged to remain on the project throughout their time at school and beyond.
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Why are we doing this project?
The attainment, transition and life chances of children in care remain poor. The rationale is that children in care will achieve more if they receive targeted, relevant experiences and support, in addition to the essential learning and support they receive at school and elsewhere.
Where is the project?
To start with, at the Steelbacks Study Centre, Northamptonshire Cricket Club, The County Ground, Wantage Road, Northampton. Eventually the project will extend across Northamptonshire Study Centres.
Where can I find out more?
Contact the Programme Coordinator - Val Sudlow (details below) or complete the online form on the right.
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