Has Jon Cowley been working in Burngreave (for New Deal for Communities) only since 2004. It feels a lot longer than that such has been the contribution that he has made. After many a year working at Sheffield College, Jon was persuaded to come to Burngreave and work initially as the ‘education and training’ manager, and more recently as the ‘children and young people’s’ manager. It’s sometimes necessary to remind yourself that, in for example a youth networking meeting, the most engaged and passionate and lively contributions come form the oldest person in the room (60+ now!) – and yet the one who’s contribution is listened to the most!
As well as making sure that the financial support for young people, and education in its widest sense, is available and well-used, Jon has played a central role in creating a coherent young people’s provision in Burngreave. He has had a big influence in developing
the extended schools team of staff based in all the schools
the study support programme, organisation, infrastructure and staffing, and
the development of the StreetworX youth project – with many of the paid staff being young people from Burngreave
His determination to make sure that Burngreave young people are able to grow and prosper, and have their voices heard, is a major reason why this part of New Deal’s work has had such popular acclaim.