July 2013

The know zone

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    Andrew Squires is deputy head of Denbigh School in Milton Keynes and director of the Denbigh Teaching School Alliance. More
  • Prince's Trust xl clubs
    The Prince’s Trust in-school xl clubs are aimed at re-engaging young people aged 13-19 who are struggling to achieve five A*-C GCSEs and who may be dealing with a wide range of issues including behavioural problems, low attendance and low self-confidence. More
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  • Decisions of the head or heart?
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Prince's Trust xl clubs

The Prince’s Trust in-school xl clubs are aimed at re-engaging young people aged 13-19 who are struggling to achieve five A*-C GCSEs and who may be dealing with a wide range of issues including behavioural problems, low attendance and low self-confidence.

How do the clubs work?

The xl programme creates a positive and informal learning experience for young people, who work together on practical learning activities, such as making and selling a product for an enterprise project or preparing and cooking a meal for invited guests as part of an enrichment project. Led by a member of school teaching or support staff, they work their way through five activity areas that are designed to develop personal and social skills, build confidence and prepare the young people for progression to further education, training, volunteering, apprenticeships or work.

What resources does the Trust provide schools and colleges?
The Prince’s Trust provides full training for advisers and a dedicated member of Trust staff as a regular contact. The programme is fully supported by high-quality teaching and learning resources, which include lesson plans and activity ideas. Schools that are part of the xl network can also benefit from enrichment opportunities such as sports coaching and tournaments, and corporate volunteers delivering CV and interview skills workshops.

How do the clubs benefit pupils?

Lauren Hyams, national head of programme (team and xl) at The Trust, has seen the benefits in action. Lauren said, “Taking part in an xl club can help young people who are on the brink of dropping out to re-engage with learning. We’ve seen on so many occasions how it increases their confidence, self-esteem and social skills as well as improving behaviour in challenging pupils. In fact 90 per cent of young people who’ve taken part, show positive skills development across a range of areas.”

How does it fit in with the curriculum?

Most schools operate a Prince’s Trust xl club over five terms for young people aged 13 to 16. A group of young people work together for three to five hours a week during curriculum time. Pupils benefit from a stable and trusting environment, which improves their ability to learn and engage. They also have a chance to work towards an Ofqual accredited award, certificate or diploma backed by the reputation of The Prince’s Trust at Entry 3, Level 1 and Level 2.

How can my school get started with an xl club?

If you have a member of staff who wants to act as an adviser and if you can provide appropriate space for the group to meet, you are good to go. To find out more about how The Prince’s Trust xl clubs can benefit your school, visit www.princes-trust.org.uk/xlclubs email info@princes-trust.org.uk or call 0800 842 842. The Prince’s Trust works with young people aged 13-30 supporting them into work, education and/ or training. Find out more about all of our programmes at www.princes-trust.org.uk

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