The Vision Behind the Enrichment Partnership Pilot

The EPP project seeks to provide a comprehensive solution to the lack of accessible enrichment activities for many students in ten secondary schools: Monkwearmouth Academy, Harton Academy, Washington Academy, Thornhill Academy, Red House Academy, Academy360, Kepier, Southmoor Academy, St Joseph's Catholic Academy, and Christ's College. By offering a platform that connects young people with a plethora of activities—from acting and surfing to boxing and youth clubs—the initiative aims to enrich their educational journey and personal development.

Youth Voice: The Core of the EPP

A cornerstone of the EPP is the active involvement of students in shaping the project's direction. Through online surveys and a series of consultation activities, students have been given a voice. These consultations, conducted through focus groups at each participating school, have provided invaluable insights into the current state of access to enrichment activities.

Students have candidly shared what activities they currently engage in, both in and out of school, and what they aspire to explore. More importantly, they have highlighted the barriers they face—be it financial constraints, lack of transportation, or unawareness of available opportunities. The students’ feedback has been instrumental in identifying gaps and potential areas for improvement. Their suggestions also included the need for more diverse offerings and greater flexibility in scheduling to accommodate their busy lives.

Engaging the Community: Parents, Guardians, and School Staff

The EPP project recognizes that enriching a young person's life is a community effort. As such, it has extended its reach to include the perspectives of parents, guardians, and school staff. Through targeted online surveys, these groups have shared their observations and concerns, further enriching the data pool.

Parents and guardians have provided crucial insights into the logistical challenges and safety concerns that sometimes prevent their children from participating in activities. School staff, on the other hand, have shared their observations on the benefits of enrichment activities and the importance of fostering a well-rounded educational experience. This comprehensive approach ensures that the project addresses the needs of all stakeholders involved.

The Enrichment Partnership Launch Event

A significant milestone in the EPP project was the Enrichment Partnership launch event held at the Mercure Newcastle George Washington Hotel in July. The event was a vibrant gathering of approximately 50 attendees, including representatives from local businesses, organizations, and community groups. These local enrichment providers were introduced to the goals and vision of the EPP and were invited to collaborate with schools to increase awareness of and expand the range of activities available to students.

This launch event not only served as a networking opportunity but also marked the beginning of a crucial collaboration between schools and local enrichment providers. The attendees had the chance to register their details and the opportunities they offer on an online portal being developed as part of the project. This portal will serve as a free, easily accessible directory for young people, parents, guardians, and schools, showcasing a variety of activities, clubs, lessons, and volunteering opportunities.

Building Bridges: Overcoming Barriers to Enrichment

One of the EPP project's most significant aspects is its focus on removing barriers to participation in enrichment activities. The feedback collected from students, parents, and school staff has highlighted several obstacles, including financial limitations, lack of information, and logistical issues like transportation. By identifying these challenges, the project aims to work with the ten schools to develop targeted strategies to overcome them.

For instance, the EPP is providing each school with a £6000 bursary, which can be used to buy students the equipment they need in order to participate in an enrichment activity, such as walking boots and waterproof clothing for Duke of Edinburgh expeditions, or ingredients and equipment for cookery clubs, as well as discounted or free travel to activities. The bursary should ensure that some of the financial constraints put on parents and guardians do not prevent any student from engaging in enriching experiences. The development of the online portal is another crucial step in making information about available activities more accessible to all.

The Power of Collaboration

The success of the EPP project hinges on collaboration between various stakeholders—students, schools, parents, local organizations, and the broader community. By working together, these groups can create a supportive network that encourages young people to explore new interests and develop new skills. The participation of local businesses and organizations is particularly vital, as it provides students with real-world experiences and opportunities to engage with their community.

The enthusiasm and commitment shown by local enrichment providers at the launch event were a testament to the community's willingness to support young people's development. From sports clubs to arts organisations, the range of activities available through these providers promises to cater to a wide array of interests, ensuring that every student can find something that excites and motivates them.

The Road Ahead

As the EPP project continues to unfold over the next nine months, the focus remains on expanding the reach and impact of enrichment activities. The online portal, set to be a key resource for students and families, will continually be updated with new opportunities and information. Also, the project will continue to gather feedback from all stakeholders, refining its offerings and strategies to best meet the community's needs.

The involvement of students in every step of the process ensures that their voices remain at the forefront. The ongoing consultations and focus groups will continue to inform the direction of the project, ensuring that it remains responsive to the changing needs and interests of young people.

How to Get Involved

Durham Wildlife Trust invites all local businesses, organisations, and community groups interested in contributing to the EPP project to get involved. By registering on the online portal, these groups can offer their activities and services to a wider audience, helping to raise awareness of the enriching opportunities available to young people in South Tyneside and Sunderland. To register please click here.

For those interested in learning more, please contact Dorinda Kealoha at dkealoha@durhamwt.co.uk or call 0191 5843112. Whether you are a local business, a parent, or simply someone passionate about supporting youth development, your involvement can make a difference.

Conclusion

Durham Wildlife Trust is a delivery partner for the National Citizen Service Trust (NCS) and The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Enrichment Partnership Pilot scheme. The EPP is more than just a project; it's a movement towards providing young people with the opportunities they need to thrive. By listening to students, engaging with parents and school staff, and collaborating with local enrichment providers, the EPP is creating a vibrant network of learning and growth.

Together, we can enrich the lives of the youth in South Shields and Sunderland, empowering them to explore, discover, and achieve their full potential.