Islington schools at the heart of their communities
Twelve Islington schools have met tough new government targets by offering a
full range of extended services - activities that support the learning and
well-being of both children and adults. All schools will be expected to meet
the targets by 2010.
Examples include:
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A free legal advice service for parents, operated by a firm of local solicitors
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GCSE classes where children and parents learn together
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Breakfast clubs where children are getting a healthy start to the day, and
have a good time with their friends
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Counselling services for children affected by bereavement or whose behaviour
is causing difficulties at home or at school, provided by local charities and
the health service
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Parenting classes for parents who want advice and support
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An exciting range of after-school activities for children such as capeoira and
astronomy, as well as the more common ones such as football, cookery, and art
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Childcare that allows parents to work or study, in some cases provided on the
school site, in others by signposting to local childcare organisations
Cllr. Ursula Woolley, Lead Councillor for children’s services, said “It is
truly heartening to see the wonderful array of opportunities and services that
schools are providing to support children, and their families and communities.
As trusted organisations at the heart of every child’s life, schools are
central to our vision of Islington being an enjoyable, cohesive, sustainable
and safe place for children to grow up.”
“Schools are not just places that children go for lessons - they are also
providing an exciting range of out of school activities, as well as bringing
in specialists to work with children and their families who need extra help,
and providing opportunities for parents and others to learn new skills – and
much, much more.”
Eleanor Schooling, Director of Education Services, said “Extended services are
essential; they can help to overcome the barriers that get in the way of
children’s learning. It is particularly encouraging that many different kinds
of schools right across the borough have reached this point, from single-form
entry primaries to a large secondary school, and by both community and
voluntary aided schools. This shows that this is something that is within the
reach of every school.”
David Wainwright, Extended Schools Development Manager for Islington said
“Schools are doing a fantastic job, working with parents, local organisations
and others in their communities to provide these services. We will continue to
support all schools in the borough to develop extended services that reflect
the needs of their particular pupils, families and communities. The Government
has set the challenging target for all schools to be providing these services
by 2010, and this is a significant first step for us in Islington towards
achieving that goal”.
For more information, please contact CEA@Islington's Communications Department: