Funding for innovative approach to at risk children

Wigram MP Jim Anderton is delighted that a centre based in the Wigram electorate is receiving $79, 000 for an innovative new project aimed at improving achievement levels of refugee and migrant students.

Education Minister Trevor Mallard has approved funding for the Christchurch English Language Intensive Programme, as part of the Innovations Funding Pool.

The Christchurch ELIP Centre runs a programme for Year 7 and 8 refugee and migrant students to help in their transition to secondary school.

The programme provides intensive academic backup for the students and professional development for their mainstream teachers at Kirkwood Intermediate, Cobham Intermediate and Riccarton Primary.

The innovations funding pool was introduced in 1998 to encourage innovative ways of working with students who are at risk of not achieving well at school. Each year the government provides $1 million to trial innovative projects.

Projects so far have focused on areas such as mentoring, outdoor education, literacy and numeracy projects, health, well-being or self esteem, and early intervention.

"The innovations funding pool has the potential to raise achievement for students who may otherwise fail at school. This government is committed to an all inclusive education system," Jim Anderton, Progressive Leader, said.

"It is an exciting opportunity to try new approaches and change the school environment to make it more supportive of at risk children," Jim Anderton said.

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