Life Experience kids strike out
Year 2 and 3 pupils from across North Leamington have been enjoying an afternoon of bowling and a meal as part of an extended services project aimed at giving them a taste of life experience.
The pupils, from North Leamington, Brookhurst, Milverton and Telford Primary Schools, have done a series of activities, including picnics, ecology days in gardens and even just relaxing in the park to boost their interaction with their peers and help them to get the most out of being at school.
The latest activity saw the youngsters enjoy an afternoon of bowling at Megabowl in Leamington and a meal at Frankie and Benny’s afterwards. A discount was given at each venue.
Funded by the Extended Services team, the Life Experience group has had tremendous benefits for the children involved as teacher Jill Manley explains.
“The children were selected as we felt that engaging in fun activities and opportunities to engage socially with other children might be of particular benefit to them. Getting the most out of school is not just about academic attainment. It is about enjoying the social possibilities and the chance to make friends and enjoy activities together and this tends to be followed by improved performance in the classroom.
“I’m delighted that we have been able to encourage the children to enjoy the extra possibilities that this project is providing. What they have gained in terms of their increased confidence, raised self esteem, and developed ability to communicate with their peers and school staff has been wonderful to watch.’
Michelle Hutton, cluster co-ordinator for the North Leamington area, said: “The life experience project has a broad remit that doesn’t simply look to enhance opportunities for learning but also to help children enjoy their time at school and to give them the tools to make the most of the opportunities.”