Epsom has received praise from the Independent Schools Council in its Celebrating Partnerships report, in recognition of the College’s successful service scheme with primary schools in the local area. The report, published annually, celebrates partnerships between state and independent schools across all areas of school life.
The Epsom College Service Programme involves Sixth Form volunteers from the College working with the younger pupils to support their learning and development. It is a scheme designed to help disadvantaged pupils at various primary schools in the local area reach a higher level of attainment. The schools involved in the programme are Banstead Community Junior School, Woodmansterne Primary, The Vale, and Wallace Fields Infants School.
During the autumn term, pupils from Epsom undertook three weeks of training and were matched with pupils depending on their identified strengths. They assisted both individuals and groups of pupils with language development; worked on numeracy by playing board games; supported reading, science and craft activities; and developed the children’s social skills through play. The outreach programme has enabled the College to support the schools close the gap in attainment for disadvantaged pupils.
“By spending time every week with individual children, the Epsom College students have helped to develop their language, social and emotional skills, and enhance their emotional wellbeing.” Miss Nicky Mann, Co Headteacher, Wallace Fields Infants School.
