Please tell us about the African Community School.

The African Community School is a supplementary provision predominantly for ethnic minority children who sometimes struggle with the school structure. African Community School enables these children to learn in a safe and supportive environment, focusing on English, science, maths and homework support for children aged from5 to 16. We also provide a holistic service that enables parents and children to learn together as a family. We also run accredited adult learning classes, parenting classes, a summer school and a mentoring programme for children.

What benefits do you see for the families participating in your program?

Families are empowered to support their children’s education with more confidence and get more involved with school activities such as voluntary roles.

What difference does the African Community School make to Hackney?

African Community School is unique in providing this type of service to local residents. Teachers have reported an increase in school attendance, improved levels of achievement and improved behaviour. More parents are now attending parent evenings and coffee mornings in school.

Of all the families involved in the supplementary school 25% of those that are unemployed gain full-time employment within the school structure. Also, 75% of parents attending our training courses are achieving accredited certificates in a wide range of courses.

How has Hackney CVS helped you?

The African Community School has been receiving support from Hackney CVS for the past 10 years – they have helped us to increase our funding, update our policies and procedures. We have also received support in monitoring and evaluation through programs like Delivering Change and we are now able to communicate the impact that we have on local society. We have also received various training to support our staff and volunteers around safeguarding and demonstrating outcomes.