SADACCA Study Support started in the 199Os as there was a realisation within schools across Sheffield that children from African Caribbean backgrounds were not achieving and in many cases being excluded.
They were stereotyped and labelled instead of systems being put in place to address the need for extra support. It was easier to put them in special classes which did not challenge them in any way. It was a way of pushing them aside, which mostly led to exclusion. SADACCA sought to address this need by starting the study support, which resulted in many of the students who attended achieving remarkably well.
The aim of the study support is to take underachieving children, and bring them up to the National Curriculum average. The study support teaches all areas of the curriculum but mainly focuses on maths, English, science and life skills.
As a parent who uses the facilities, I have experienced the positive effect this service offers. My son felt more comfortable asking questions and gaining a better understanding in each subject which brought up his grades especially in maths and handwriting. This improved his confidence as he was better equipped for his lessons. It provides him with an opportunity to socialise with children of similar backgrounds with the consistency of interaction, which is fundamental in forming relationships.
Presently there are approximately 170 age 5–16 using the service from 30 schools across Sheffield. There is a cross-section of representation from different communities. The service is staffed by a Co-ordinator, administrator, five trained teachers (three primary, two secondary) and five to six volunteers. They operate Monday to Wednesday, 4.30–7.30pm. A snack is provided for a small contribution of 50p, everything else is free.
There are two gems that come to mind which we should remind our children in helping them to achieve their potential.
“The heights of great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight but they, while their companions slept, were toiling upwards through the night. ” Good, better, best – never let it rest until
your good be better, and your better best.”
Let’s encourage our kids to hold on to their dreams. It can be done.
by Camille Daughma