Alsop Summer Project 2021

From August 2^nd Alsop High School facilitated a summer project over five days. Due to Covid restrictions the programme was different from previous summer school initiatives and all activities took place on site, mainly in the Jamieson building and the MUGA.

We invited all Year 7 starters to participate in the programme. 131 young people enrolled and attended the Summer School. There was an average daily attendance of 115 students. The programme was staffed by 13 Alsop teachers and assisted by 4 members of the learning support team. We were delighted that the LFC Foundation and Merseyside Police were able to contribute to the programme.

The day began with a free continental breakfast and we encouraged students to eat fruit. One student commented it was like “being all-inclusive.”

The theme was “Me and My City” and our aim was to boost the confidence and self-esteem of the participants.

It also provided the opportunity for young people to socialise, meet new friends and connect with their new teachers.  Morning activities were classroom based with a focus on literacy and numeracy. Every student received a reading book.

After lunch students participated in Art and Craft sessions, Fitness, Problem Solving and Teamwork, and Communication/Confidence building workshops.

The day ended with a reflection, where we celebrated achievement. The glorious sunshine enabled this to be celebrated outside on the Quad. Students loved finishing their day with the gift of ice lollies and ice creams.

Evaluation comments included:

“I met new friends”

“The teachers were kind and helpful”

“The staff were fun and welcoming”

“It was fun and exciting”

“Yummy food and drink”

“Very well organized”

“It was awesome”

“I enjoyed the full tour of the school and the facilities it offers”

“I loved the tours and the new beginnings”

“It has improved my communication skills”

“The teamwork worked really and now I’m mates with most of my group”

“I loved the story telling. We listened and it let me let my creativity out and write my own stories”

“I’ve worked well in Maths and English. I didn’t like English in primary school but now I do. I loved the Maths”

Has the Summer School improved your mental health?

“My confidence is good, it is much better”

“I’m just way happier”

“It made me happy”

“It gave me the chance to leave the house, join in activities and do some exercise”

“Meeting teachers improved my mental health”

“I am not as anxious”

“In September I won’t be nervous because I know people”

“I’m not shy anymore”

“I was isolating before coming here and had nothing to and this has been really fun”

“Yes, I’m normally on my phone and this has got me out of the house”

“It made me feel happy and more excited about life”

“It has encouraged me to be more active”

What went well.

• Good numbers
• Staff student ratios were low – two staff per group
• Healthy breakfasts
• Celebration of success – rewards for excellence
• Well structured numeracy and literacy workshops which engaged the students
• Every student received a reading book
• Sessions with Merseyside Police

Next Year???

• Off site visits – Chester Zoo, Liverpool FC etc
• Involve parents in final celebration of success
• Hot food with kitchen staff.
• Two week programme