An innovative new way of funding extra schooling for children that need additional support is being launched in Hammersmith & Fulham.
The initiative will help 132 youngsters at three schools in its first year.
“We are determined to invest in young people to give them the best start in life,” said Cllr Stephen Cowan, Leader of Hammersmith and Fulham Council.
“At a time when funding for councils and schools has never been tighter, West London Zone has created an innovative new model to make the support we provide children go much further.”
Funding boost
West London Zone's unique Collective Impact Bond boosts H&F Council and schools funding with other government cash and donations from charities, businesses and individuals.
West London Zone funds extra support for pupils at risk of leaving school with poor qualifications, or with difficulty in getting the best out of school.
A nine-month pilot in Hammersmith & Fulham showed 87 per cent of secondary school participants improved their English, and 57 per cent of participating primary school children improved their behaviour.
Michael Ribton, Principal of Ark Burlington Danes Academy, said: “West London Zone adds value to our school by bringing in extra support with academics, mental and physical wellbeing, as well as a high quality link worker who organises it all and supports the children and families.”
Young people first
This coming together of organisations represents a series of firsts when it comes to providing funding for young people.
It is the first time schools and councils have pooled resources in such a scheme; the first time philanthropy has been used to pay for results in this way; and a rare example of different agencies joining up to deliver results in education.
For more details on West London Zone and their partners visit here.
