Education and Welfare Rashford is right to have highlighted the issues for children and I think Summer Camps would be a good way to build on this address the issue of The Divide: One – Two week camps with basic provision; in order to keep children positively occupied, fed and inspired (plus potentially assign tutors to help pupils with imminent exams). BREAKFAST – Basic and available for early doors, cereals / toast. AM English / Maths / Science (Paid for – all NQTs and PGCE students / Trainee teachers to help. LUNCH – cooked – plus BBQs weather permitting PM Sport, plus a variety of activities: Cadets / Swimming / D of E / Trips: RSC Theatre / Film Sets / Rock Climbing / Walks / Farms (strawberry picking) TEA – Toast / Doughnuts / Fruit Goody Bag: Fruit / Chocolate / Oat Bar Who could run it? A community based approach: football clubs / local health centres / Local Army Regiments / local Schools / Trainee teachers / Local MPs to help with Governance. Probably best to start with one week options, but ultimately it could be that these run for four-six weeks so we know the children will be ok upon their return to school in September and have had an enriching summer. Initially, this could be based at local school (perhaps with work from independent sector too), then the time frame and opportunities on offer could be enlarged (old boys and girls who work as paid mentors). Ultimately, however, the schools, (which are there and empty over the summer) could become cultural and community hubs which help out families and provide boosts / respite / inspire as appropriate. Please do not, under any circumstances let this be outsourced to Capita or it will fail. Proven citizens from the military, emergency services and education would be the key players; run by someone with vision and experience. The team should be paid, and why not give the kids pocket money so they can take it home (like a paper round) and help their families with this too. Thereby installing a good work ethic, sense of duty and loyalty. The pocket money could be taxed (1%) and the children choose from a range of options: NHS, British Legion, Local football club, local hospice. Thank you.
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