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What was planned?

An Ofsted report in 1995 identified a problem with afternoon attendance at West Gate Community College that needed to be rectified.  The school introduced a number of strategies to help improve the situation, one of which was lunchtime provision for pupils.      

What was done and when?

Lunchtime clubs were slowly introduced and became an integral part of the strategy to improve afternoon attendance.  By 2000 when New Opportunities Fund funding was introduced pupil numbers had risen and it was clear that more clubs were needed.  A new sports centre and willing staff allowed a huge number of sporting activities to be offered.  A wide range of other clubs are also provided including computer, music, art, drama, homework and library activities.  Each lunchtime 300-400 pupils are given the opportunity to attend.  
 
What has the impact been?

These activities have helped pupils at West Gate increase their skills and raise their self esteem.  They have had a positive impact on pupil/teacher relationships and have helped pupils improve as independent learners.  They have also assisted in solving the problem of afternoon attendance.   In the words of pupils themselves:

"I get extra help with my reading and spelling."
 
 "I don’t like walking around the yard, so the library is a safe place to go".
 
 "I love sport and at lunchtime I can try new sports like table tennis".