Laila Wragg (Adult Learning Co-ordinator) and students at the Owler Brook Community School.

As a first step, we run a weekly mother and toddler session. It is often the first time potential students come into the school. We aim, through this informal session, to encourage students to come to the classes. At the same time parents are able to borrow toys from the Toy Library to help the children learn through play.

“I attended the mother and toddler group about two years ago. I started the parenting course, it helped build my confidence and encouraged me to go further. I have just completed the classroom assistants’ course and have started the teaching course.” – Rukana

“I was just a mother with two children and no qualifications. It’s been great to be involved in this school. Mind you we wouldn’t be doing all these courses without Laila Wragg’s hard work and we are doing all this in Mrs Graville’s school.” – Usha Blackham

Many students initially learn basic English; this allows them to provide support for their children’s learning through homework and communication with the school. These students then go on to take further courses and gain confidence and qualifications.

Originally ten-week courses were offered, but they were found to be too short. Now all courses run for thirty weeks. We aim for the students to go as high as can be. A tiny seed has grown into a big strong tree.

“I met Laila and enjoyed working with her, I was learning on a basic course and this year I am on a level 2 course. I’d like to go further and further.” – Eqbal

“I enrolled because I wanted to study more and hopefully get a job. I wanted to become a classroom support worker so I can work with children, which I really enjoy. I got a job at Owler Brook Infant School while I was finishing off my course, and enjoyed working and studying together. It gives me time to spend with my children which is brilliant.” – Shakila Najib

The classes have proved very successful, and are oversubscribed with a long waiting list. Tony Tingle from the Burngreave Community Learning Campaign says the initiative is being held up as a shining example and is being used as a model for other community schools.

All of this would not have been possible without the help and support of the Headteacher Mrs Graville. She has been vital to the success of the classes. We really could not have done the job without her.

“I work at Owler Brook School, the course gave me an opportunity to become a qualified support worker. Also an opportunity to build my confidence and self esteem.” – Ms Khan

“I first started coming for the mother and toddler group. I’ve just completed an NVQ for classroom assistant which I never thought I could achieve. I’ve just signed up for a teaching course. I owe Laila Wragg and Mrs Graville a lot.” – Mrs Nagi

Twenty-five students will graduate as classroom assistants on the 10th October. They will be presented with certificates in a ceremony at the Town Hall by the Lord Mayor Councillor Diane Leek.

We’d like to thanks all our funders and teaching staff for making the classes such a success.

Chetna Patel is starting a 10 week Healthy Lifestyles course at Owler Brook from the 3rd October, focusing on good food. The last two weeks before Christmas there will be international cooking demonstrations from women who attend the classes. Arts and crafts workshops are currently being planned for the Mother & Toddler sessions with Panni Loh from Green City Action.

To talk about any of the classes, visit Owler Brook School, Monday to Thursday and ask for Laila.