Out of school hours learning

Who benefits? 

• pupils/students 
• teachers and schools 
• parents and carers 
• the community    

What activities are there? 

Schools in Derbyshire vary what they offer across the year and for different ages and needs. Schools work with others in the community to provide study support as part of Extended Services The activities may include some of the following 

• sports, games and adventurous outdoor activities
• creative ventures (music, drama, dance, film and the full range of arts)
• residential events - study weeks or weekends
• homework clubs (facilities and support to do homework)
• help with key skills, including literacy, numeracy and computer work
• study clubs (linked to or extending curriculum subjects)
• space and support for coursework and exam revision
• opportunities for voluntary activities in the school or community
• opportunities to pursue particular interests (science, IT, law, archaeology, languages)
• mentoring by adults or other pupils
• learning about learning (thinking skills, accelerated learning)
• community work (environmental clubs, crime prevention initiatives)    

How can Out of School Hours Learning help young people? 

It could help develop skills and qualities that can lead to improved performance in school subjects and higher self-esteem. It may offer the opportunity to learn about subjects not in the normal curriculum and to learn in different ways. Young people may even be involved in running some activities, giving opportunities to develop practical skills in planning and organisation. The young people may also be able to pass on the benefits of their own knowledge and experiences by mentoring their peers or younger children. It can offer a different perception of learning from normal classroom activities, and some young people find it easier to learn in less structured and formal environments. A less formal environment can also help build new relationships with teachers. You can find out more about how study support can help by visiting www.parentcentre.gov.uk/ (opens in a new window)

How can I help?

You can become involved in a number of ways. You can

• help in the planning and organisation of events
• work as a volunteer in out of school activities
• parents can also help by providing a supportive learning environment for your child at home
• parents can offer new role models and the opportunity for young people to develop new relationships with adults other than teachers.    

Further information can be found by searching the following www.standards.dfes.gov.uk/studysupport/ (opens in a new window)

Or www.ngfl.gov.uk (opens in a new window) and choose options for children, parents or others.

Your school may have a Study Support Coordinator or someone who has specific responsibility for out of school hours learning. If you are unsure, ask the class teacher, Deputy or Headteacher.

The Local Education Authority has a contact too:

Orlinda Dias 
Consultant – Out of School Hours Learning 
John Hadfield House 
Centre for School Improvement 
Dale Road 
Matlock 
DE4 3RD 

01629 580000 ext 2803 
Email: orlinda.dias@derbyshire.gov.uk

You may also like to look at the TooDoo website (opens in a new window) with details of clubs and activities aimed at young people.