SHINE is delighted to announce a new partnership with the Mayor’s Fund for London. Over the next two years, this partnership will help more than 300 students aged between 11 and 13 make a success of secondary school.

The programme, ‘Step Up’, is modelled very closely on our existing SHINE in Secondaries programme. Starting this September, it will run in three London secondary schools, providing students with the academic support they need to successfully navigate the often difficult transition into secondary school.

Step Up

The programme takes place mainly on Saturdays, when the 11-13 year olds will receive practical, creative learning designed to reinforce their literacy and numeracy, along with other activities to broaden their learning and increase their enthusiasm for school. Other sessions are expected to take place during half terms or the summer holidays.

Paul Carbury, SHINE’s Chief Executive, said: “We’re delighted to be working closely with the Mayor’s Fund for London on this fantastic programme. Every teacher knows how difficult students can find the first year of secondary school – we believe that Step Up will make a real difference to their attainment this year, and beyond.”

The Mayor’s Fund for London

The Mayor’s Fund for London was set up to give young people the skills and opportunities to escape the threat of poverty and get a decent job. It focuses its energy into three areas: skills (particularly numeracy and literacy); employment; and health and well-being.