Warwick district children have their say
Children in Kenilworth, Leamington and Warwick are to have their say about what services they want to see in their neighbourhood.
Parents are also being invited to the special event next week that will explain the new activities that schools in the town are set to introduce.
Schools in Warwick district are preparing to become extended schools. That means offering more than traditional lessons during term time.
Under plans being drawn up by the Government schools will become a base for lots of different activities that will benefit children, parents and the community the whole year round.
Schools will work with other bodies – such as Warwickshire County Council, Connexions, Warwickshire Police, and the health service to bring about the changes.
There are five core services that schools must offer, either themselves or in association with other partners and schools in the area.
But the views of children, young people and families are also being sought to help shape services to exactly what residents want.
A day-long event is being held at the Warwick Hilton to give people the chance to find out more. Workshops led by youth workers to let the young people have their say.
Carol Bunyard, Extended Schools Strategy Officer, said: “Extended schools will revolutionise the way that schools are seen in the community and services are accessed. They will become hubs of activity the year round, with many different agencies and organisations using them as a base to deliver local services. Underpinning all these plans is the phrase ‘Every Child Matters’ and that’s what this event is all about. We want people in Kenilworth, Leamington and Warwick to feel part of this process and are looking forward to hearing their views.”
One school involved in developing extended schools is Wellesbourne CE Primary School. Headteacher Graeme Burgess said:
“The Extended Schools Agenda is a real chance for clusters of schools and services to work closely together, providing enhanced opportunities for young people within their communities, that should make a real difference to the quality of their lives.”
The conference takes place from 9.30am to 4pm on 6 July 2006. To book a free place, call Juliet Jenkins on 01926 409124 or email juliet@noelquinn.co.uk.