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XLClub
Lochaber High School.
Contact person: Duncan Cameron, Pupil Support Service.
Context:
Lochaber High School is the secondary school for much of Lochaber.
It has a large Support for Learning Department with a SEN class and a Pupil
Support Base that supports a range of pupils on temporary exclusions from
some subjects, returning to school after a lengthy absence, non-attenders
and others. The XLClub is in its first year and aims to support
a number of S3 pupils who are not able to access or sustain full mainstream
classes.
Pupil Group:
The XLClub is designed for pupils unable to sustain the whole S3/4 course;
they are selected from Pupil Support Base, Support for Learning and SEN.
The optimum group size is 12. Group dynamics are crucial when
setting up the group - not for ‘premier league bad boys’- but a rich mix of
pupils including physically disabled, behaviour difficulties, Asperger
Syndrome and school refusers.
In Lochaber they have found that pupils with behaviour problems can be
excellent with the disabled pupils in the group.
Aims:
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To encourage independence,
increase motivation and self-esteem |
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To develop lifeskills |
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Citizenship is the ethos of the
club. |
About the xl Club in Lochaber High:
The xl meets 3 periods per week in school time and is school based with
activities in the community.
The pupils run the club. They planned, ordered and paid for the redecoration
of the room and are responsible for the accounts.
The atmosphere is very relaxed and the pupils start with a cup of tea and a
chat. Through socialising together and a variety of games and group work the
pupils develop their self-esteem and social skills.
Activities have included Sailing for the Disabled and running the ‘Tuck
Wagon’ for school events.
All pupils get a personalised folder that contains the course programme.
In S4 the XLClub leads to preparation for work.
Enterprise:
Fundraising is an important aspect. There is a residential
component to xl clubs and Lochaber may attend the annual event in Glasgow
involving one night away.
Teacher and support assistant.
£200 start-up from the school.
Suitably located room.
Princes Trust Input:
The Trust provides a strong network and training. They are always there at
the end of a phone.
Training:
2-day training course
XLClub advisor meetings in Inverness.
Health and Safety:
Because this is a vulnerable group of pupils, staff input is high.
Individual risk assessments are carried out for activities.
Community Links:
Local Police
Volunteering Highland
Accreditation:
The Course is being accredited by SQA.
School signs an agreement with the Trust who will withdraw if things are not
working
Problems:
Finding accommodation in school
Imposition of unsuitable pupils
Losing pupils
Contacts:
Duncan Cameron 01397 702512 |
