WAYS Forward Extended Schools.

October 2005, four schools in the west of the Isle of Wight successfully wrote a joint bid to secure funding from the Big Lottery to enable them to develop and become a joint extended school. A post for co-ordinator was created, allowing a dedicated approach to ensure a positive future. This post is managed by the Family Learning manager enabling access to quality assurance, training and development opportunities through the Service. Initially, parents and carers were recruited for Family Learning courses. This happened in a number of ways, such as coffee mornings and workshops, as well as personal approach from both staff at the school and the co-ordinator.

Throughout the first year, over 70 parents and carers took part in these courses, many of which gained qualifications or accreditations. The courses were varied, including Share, Healthy families, First Aid, Law and Order, Beginners I.T and Media Express to name but a few. The courses were mainly tutored by the co-ordinator, but some such as the First Aid course and Media Express were funded by other agencies. The courses allowed the existing knowledge of professionals to be shared; by bringing in services such as Fire and Rescue, Drug Awareness workers and Health promotion teams. By working in partnership with the Islands Family Learning team, some childcare funding was secured, allow parents with younger children to also take up these learning opportunities.

The success of these learners was celebrated at the end of the summer term with a family picnic and awards ceremony. All participants and their families were invited to congratulate each other for such a successful year. Circus skills and other family activities were on the agenda for the afternoon, which everyone took part in. Each learner received an attendance certificate and the certificates for their gained qualifications.

Not only did these learners achieve recognised qualifications, but many highlighted a boost to their own self esteem and confidence, which ultimately had an impact on their whole family.


Tracey Castle
WAYS Forward Extended Schools Co-ordinator