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£6m to support character development
EB News: 27/05/2016 - 11:43
The government has announced £6 million worth of funding to support character development in schools.
Applications for a share of funding are now open, which is aimed at schools that offer ‘a wide range of activities to help broaden children’s learning experiences and boost character’.
The government defines ‘character development’ as activities that promote traits such as resilience and respect and provide a ‘rounded learning experience for children’, such as sports, debating or music.
Children and Families Minister Edward Timpson said: “Instilling positive character traits and academic excellence are two sides of the same coin - children that develop resilience are far more likely to succeed, not only in school but in later life, too.
“Whether it’s fencing classes, debating clubs or drama societies, I want schools across the country to seize the opportunity to help their pupils thrive by broadening the range of activity that they offer.”
Organisations have until 23 June to submit a proposal for grant funding, which are expected to be awarded by the end of September.
Charity Speech and Language UK has published its whitepaper in lieu of the delays to the government’s own Schools White Paper – delays which are damaging children’s education, mental health and future.
The scheme will see high-achieving young people from disadvantaged areas receive letters from students at Kings College London, encouraging them to consider a university education.
A coalition of over 60 leading organisations from the UK’s creative and digital industries, alongside education experts, are calling on the government to introduce a new Digital Creativity GCSE.
The Government’s Youth Hub programme – which are hosted by sports clubs and other community venues, will almost double in number thanks to £25 million new investment.
The Education Committee has released a new report outlining ways the government can achieve its mission of economic growth by investing in the further education (FE) and skills sector.