In Practice: Ask the experts - How do I sustain the benefits of our PE after-school club?
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
As funding for programmes is often time-limited, you need to think about how the benefits can be sustained beyond the lifetime of the funding, as this can influence activity and programme design. For example, some programmes set up exit routes from their activities to those run by local clubs and participating schools. Others develop the skills of young people through the Community or Junior Sports Leader Awards and the Step into Sport project so that they can help deliver future activities. Collecting evidence on the benefits of the programme can support applications for additional future funding.
How do I get more boys involved in our after-school clubs?
Everyone has a role to play in supporting, encouraging and helping boys to choose activities in which they can participate. However, boys can be key allies when you are planning activities because they are the people who will benefit from participating.
Things to consider include:
- Developing a buddying scheme for young people who are unsure about attending an activity for the first time
- Think about providing transport
- Monitor the participation of boys in order to measure their progress
- Hold taster sessions or offer a menu of activities to gain their interest
- Look at reward schemes or incentives as a way to encourage participation
- Designate a proactive worker to make the initial contact with the targeted boys
- Involve people who are already working with the boys - their learning mentors, social workers, counsellors
- Find ways to get their families involved to share activities
- Keep in regular contact with your local authority out of school hours learning co-ordinator
- Your questions answered by 4Children and ContinYou's consultancy services. If you have a question please email colin.hamilton@haymarket.com.
