Shine
Saturday School

The free Saturday school –– offers English, maths, science and ICT classes as well as enrichment activities ranging from drama, dance, music and trips to museums, galleries and  the theatre. One of the most interesting visits was the Globe Threatre where the children exprienced a guided tour which took them back to the Tudor times.

The classes all have a practical focus to help make the day as fun and engaging for the children as possible. Pupils are taught in groups of 20 (smaller than their usual classes of 30) by dedicated teaching staff, who are supported by a team of teaching assistants. Pupil mentors from nearby local secondary schools also help out. The progress of each child who attends SHINE at Wendell Park will be closely monitored and evaluated.

Wendell Park teacher Rosie Peters, project manager for the Saturday school, said: “The emphasis is on making learning exciting, enriching and fun. Children have the chance to raise their achievement in key subjects as well as enjoying a wide range of arts and sporting activities, trips and special events.”

Sheila Mears, the headteacher of Wendell Park Primary school , said: “This is  an integral part of our  school, which builds on the before and after-school clubs and classes already taking place at Wendell Park. It means that the school is now offering a great deal more than primary education. Children can enjoy experiences and develop skills in areas that might not be on offer in the usual curriculum. We want Wendell Park to be at the heart of the community, offering an extended day with exciting activities for children at times which meet the needs of our parents.”

On Shine opening in 2005 Stephen Shields, SHINE chief executive, said: “SHINE is serious about raising the achievement levels of children and young people through programmes which seek to engage and motivate them. Our SHINE Saturday projects  are developed in partnership with schools, they help give pupils extra challenges and stretch those who are not achieving their potential.

We are delighted that SHINE at Wendell Park has been established and wish everyone at the school well in making it a success for pupils, parents and staff.”Cllr Melanie Smallman, Hammersmith & Fulham Council’s cabinet member for education, said: “SHINE at Wendell Park is giving pupils the chance to develop their skills in English, maths and ICT in smaller classes. SHINE Saturday schools have a proven track record of raising achievement and we fully support this fantastic project, which will enable pupils at Wendell Park Primary School to reach their potential.”

SHINE is a charity which promotes and supports innovative and effective educational programmes in London and Manchester.

For more details visit http://www.shinetrust.org.uk/index2.htm·