The New Opportunities Fund last week announced funding totalling 15m in England, nearly 2m in Scotland, nearly 1m in Northern Ireland and more than 350,000 in Wales for out-of-school clubs.
The Fund's chief executive, Stephen Dunmore, said, 'These activities being supported by the NOF help to develop the confidence and self-esteem of many young people for whom school life can be difficult. No-one should underestimate the importance of introducing some pleasure, interest and even fun to the educational lives of young people. Our support for these projects is a real boost for learning.'
Initiatives in England backed by the latest funding include one by Manchester Sale Rugby Club, which received 385,000 for a scheme to raise anti-drug and anti-smoking awareness among children at ten Lancashire and Cheshire schools. The professional players aim to provide positive role models and to introduce a range of sporting activities such as high-tech fitness training.
Children at Detling County Primary and Valley Park Community School in Maidstone, Kent, will have their own 'zoo' after receiving a grant of more than 50,000 to create a zoo as an after-school-club. Valley Park deputy head Bruce Calder said, 'The Ark project will focus on the care of animals and the environment to develop basic skills and promote inclusivity among pupils. It will be a resource that can be used to build self-confidence and teamwork as well as descriptive and communication skills among children of all ages.'
In Scotland, East Dunbartonshire received 335,088 to extend and enhance a programme aimed at raising children's self-confidence through outdoor adventure programmes, sports camps, art and drama courses, modern language skills and support for ethnic minority sport. The Orkney Islands won funding to promote out-of-school hours learning accessible to all which will involve children travelling by plane, boat and bus.
In Northern Ireland, Lisanally Special School in Armagh is using funding to develop a computer club for children with severe learning difficulties, while Tullygally Primary School in Craigavon will develop an existing breakfast club and after-school activities.
Caerphilly County Borough Council in Wales is planning a range of activities tailored to the abilities of individual children. These include mentoring, dance, and life skills.
Information on how to apply for New Opportunities Fund funding is available on its website at www.nof.org.uk.
