Foundation Learning in the Community

Foundation Learning Students have been really showcasing what is meant by the Newman Community, with two initiatives that they have been involved with. The team have created links with St Augustine’s Primary School, to provide a ‘Reading Buddies’ and ‘Playground Games’ programme.

Each week, eight students from Foundation Learning visit the school during break time, to engage in playground games with the younger pupils. They then spend time in KS1, offering help and support with their reading, helping with tricky words, phonics and generally fostering a love of books and reading!

Each student has four ‘Reading Buddies’ and they have built fabulous relationships with their buddies, which has had the mutual benefit of improving the literacy skills within KS1 and building social confidence and leadership skills amongst our students.

But that is not the only community minded project the group have been involved with this term, as well as transforming an allotment, the students have taken these skills that they have learnt during the process and put them to good use within the community.

After connecting with local elderly widows and widowers, through the College’s chaplaincy team, the students have been helping local residents with their gardens, providing real help to people within the community. It has been a great experience for all who have been involved and the students particularly enjoyed the well-earned hot chocolates and shortbread by way of thanks!