CAP Programme boosts students learning

As the Children Against Poverty (CAP)/ Bridging Programme came to an end, the C.W Prescod School centre held a closing ceremony on Friday, July 31, to celebrate the advancements that participating students made during programme.{{more}}

In his remarks, CAP Coordinator Kenneth Burgin explained that the programme aimed to give academically weaker students from financially disadvantaged homes a boost in their learning, to prepare them for the upcoming school term.

Burgin explained that although the programme had its highs and lows, the students and facilitators thoroughly enjoyed their time together. The centre’s theme ‘Plants for Life’ helped to highlight the importance of plants to human existence, and this was incorporated in all taught material.

Burgin further expressed his hope that the students would retain what they have learnt and put it into practice to improve their grades. He also beseeched parents to

do their best in supporting their children’s academic progression. “You have a responsibility to ensure that your children give their best!”

Eli Francis, Director of Social Development, also gave brief remarks. He noted the CAP/Bridging programme’s theme ‘Learning with fun, growing with care’ seems to have been reflected in the students’ regular attendance on the 3-week programme. “We want to help to make you better-rounded individuals,” Francis explained to the students.

Francis explained that the C.W Prescod School was one of sixteen centres that catered to approximately 1,275 students, aged 6 – 12 years old. He further shared that this programme is one of four components of an overall scheme to address the learning needs of these students. There will also be a parenting programme, behaviour modification programme and an after-school programme, which will commence in the new school term.

Expressing deep gratitude to the programme facilitators for their time and contributions, Francis acknowledged the effort that programme facilitators (teachers, nurses, police officers, cooks etc) had put into making the CAP programme a success.

Entertainment was provided by several of the participating students, who played pan, the recorder and drums. The C W Prescod Dancers also performed, and several students spoke about what they had learnt on the programme and how much they enjoyed it. C W Prescod Principal Hyacinth Harry also gave short remarks. (JSV)