Supporting Resilient Families
Practice examples - Great Yarmouth Charter Academy
Great Yarmouth Charter Academy
Overview: Great Yarmouth Charter Academy in Norfolk has developed a comprehensive approach to supporting families, ensuring that parents and guardians have access to essential resources and guidance to help their children achieve positive outcomes.
Key Features:
- Proactive Communication: The academy maintains strong relationships with families through regular, proactive communication. This ensures that parents are kept informed about their children's progress and any support they may need
- Pastoral Support: The school's pastoral team provides dedicated support to students and their families, addressing various challenges and promoting well-being. This includes one-on-one meetings, counselling services, and tailored interventions
- Parent Workshops and Events: Great Yarmouth Charter Academy hosts workshops and events for parents, covering topics such as mental health, educational strategies, and parenting skills. These sessions empower families with knowledge and tools to support their children's development
- Online Resources: The academy's website offers a range of online resources for families, including guides on handling difficult feelings, educational materials, and information on community support services
- Community Engagement: The school actively engages with the local community, collaborating with organizations to provide additional support and resources to families. This includes partnerships with local charities, health services, and educational programs
- Extended School Day: The academy has an extended school day to ensure that all pupils enjoy healthy and safe lifestyles, experience the world of work, and learn what it means to be citizen of a great community
- Special Educational Needs & Disabilities (SEND) Support: The academy provides comprehensive support for students with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring an inclusive and accessible curriculum for all.
- Enrichment & Activities: The school offers a variety of enrichment activities and after-school clubs, including sports, arts, and academic clubs.
- Community Projects: Students are encouraged to participate in community projects, fostering a sense of responsibility.
Impact: Great Yarmouth Charter Academy's comprehensive support system has created a more inclusive and responsive environment for families. By providing proactive communication, dedicated pastoral support, and valuable resources, the school has fostered a community where families feel supported and empowered to address challenges.
Learning for Other Schools:
- Maintain Proactive Communication: Regular, proactive communication with families helps build trust and ensures parents are informed and involved in their children's education.
- Provide Dedicated Pastoral Support: A strong pastoral team can address various challenges and promote well-being among students and their families.
- Host Parent Workshops and Events: Offering workshops and events on relevant topics can empower families with knowledge and tools to support their children's development.
- Offer Online Resources: Providing a range of online resources can help families navigate challenges and improve their children's outcomes.
- Engage with the Community: Collaborating with local organizations can provide additional support and resources to families, enhancing the school's ability to address diverse needs.
By adopting similar strategies, other schools can enhance their support for families and contribute to better educational and well-being outcomes for their students.