The
Pirates’ Learning Zone is part of national programme, Playing for Success,
which started in 1997 as a partnership between Premiership Football and the Dfes.
Using
the environment and medium of sport as a motivational tool, the centres were set
up to help raise literacy, numeracy and ICT standards and increase confidence
and self-esteem in pupils underachieving in these key skills and who are often
demotivated.
Each
centre is run by an experienced teacher and is equipped with state of the art
IT facilities.
Due to its success the initiative was extended to other sports
in 2000 and Cornwall LEA was invited to join 2001 with the Pirates’ Learning
Zone opening in April 2002
Since then the centre has worked with over 1,000
children selected by their schools and has seen tremendous result in raising self-esteem,
confidence and academic standards.
The Future
In
the academic year 2005/06 the Learning Zone plans to work with a further 16 local
schools, targeting another 200 pupils from the primary and secondary sectors for
after study support.
The plans are to also increase daytime provision at
the centre to work with Education Out of School service as well as provide opportunities
for schools to take up literacy, numeracy and IT packages, using the fantastic
facilities at the Learning Zone.
The centre will continue to offer holiday
programmes involving a range of activities both in the Learning Zone and out on
the pitch with the players.
The Verdict
Schools:
‘Yet
again the Pirates’ Learning Zone has provided the children of St Erth with
a superb platform for increasing their self esteem and confidence. The motivation
of your staff has had an undoubted impact on the children.’
Parents
‘Since
attending the Pirates we have noticed a great improvement in Bethany’s confidence
at home and in school. She has really enjoyed attending.’
Charlie’s
confidence has grown and his sense of achievement has meant that he has enjoyed
attending very much.’
‘Oliver has thoroughly enjoyed the
course and didn’t want to miss a session. He talked about everything he did
and especially enjoyed the rugby. Thank you very much.’
Children:
‘I
think the Pirates’ Learning Zone is SO COOL I want to come again’
Cornish
Pirates Learning Zone Website
