Extended schools
This section of TeacherNet provides advice on setting up extended services. It is aimed at schools and LAs but it will also be useful for local providers.
Recent reports/guidance
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Updated extended schools prospectus — published 29 June 2007
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Practical know-how - guidance on setting up extended services and links to case studies.
What is an extended school?
A key way of delivering Every Child
Matters outcomes, an extended school works with the local
authority, local providers and other schools to provide
access to a core offer of
integrated services:
- a varied range of activities including study support, sport and music clubs, combined with childcare in primary schools.
- parenting and family support;
- swift and easy access to targeted and specialist services;
- community access to facilities including adult and family learning, ICT and sports grounds.
These will often be provided beyond the school day but not necessarily by teachers or on the school site.
What are the benefits?
There is evidence that extended services can help to:
- improve pupil attainment, self-confidence, motivation and attendance;
- reduce exclusion rates;
- better enable teachers to focus on teaching and learning;
- enhance children's and families access to services.
Ofsted will report during school inspections on how extended services are contributing to improved outcomes for children and young people. Find out more about the benefits in the research section. There are currently over 8,000 (more than 1 in 3) schools providing access to the core offer of extended services.
How do I set up extended services?
Watch and read the transcript of a video
showing examples of how schools are providing access to extended
services. See also the Guardian
Every Child Matters supplements.
'Extended school' is not a status that schools centrally apply for as activities will depend on the needs of the local community. Schools will need to work with their local authority (in particular the extended schools adviser), pupils, parents, the local community and local providers. The practical know-how section has more details on how to set up extended services, including a step to step guide. The Extended Schools Prospectus is also a useful starting point. The role of the local authority and extended services is explained in more detail in the local authority section.
What funding is available?
Government has committed £680m for the development of
extended services from 2006 to 2008. Find out more in the funding section.
Sources of advice
Find out what help is available for
local authorities and schools in setting up extended services.
Information for parents is available from the Parents Centre website.
If you have any queries, please email info@dcsf.gsi.gov.uk
Last updated: 31 October 2007
