Welcome to CEN

“CEN stands shoulder to shoulder with parents, families and carers who are experiencing issues with their children's education."

Our aim is to ensure that all the adults key to a child's learning work cohesively in order that children have access to and retain their right to be included in mainstream education. So, we work to support the entire school community offering advice, support, and representation for parents.

We have a group of staff and volunteer Education Advocates who are on hand to provide advice and support if a child is experiencing problems at school, particularly with fixed term or permanent exclusion. 

However, we also understand that sometimes issues arise that may require a collective approach according to the varied needs of children and families, which is why we also offer to signpost students and parents to a range of external organisations for additional support. 

Conact us here

BOSSING it Bk2skl

We know that going back to or starting school can be a difficult time - for parents as well as children. So here are a few useful tips to help you and your young person to have a successful start to the new school year.

SECONDARY SCHOOL

  • Uniforms are a big thing (as sad as it is) - if they feel uncomfortable in what they are wearing, they won’t feel confident going in.
  • Check lessons and encourage them to become familiar with the names of which teachers they will have for each subject. Talk about subjects they may not be comfortable or confident in or teachers they haven’t met and ask what they can do to get to know the topic or their teacher.
  • Address travel issues: If it’s a new school, make sure the child knows the way. If required, take a walk the day before so they know are sure of the directions. Ensure they have a bus pass, and know a couple of routes to/from school 
  • Talk about home time (after school boundaries = straight home)

PRIMARY SCHOOL

  • Label clothes especially P.E kits
  • Ensure packed lunches/ water bottles are prepped the night before
  • Get uniforms/pe kits and bags ready the day before
  • Get them back into routine –usual bedtime, dinner time etc
  • Encourage them to make friends.
  • Ensure if it is their first day that they feel safe. They will be ok, so reinforce the idea that it’s going to be a fun and exciting time.

PARENTS

  • Make sure you set alarms with enough time to get up, have breakfast and get to school in good time, so you are not rushing and end up late
  • Assist with uniform prep – have things ready the day before
  • Sit down and get involved in homework regardless of age, participate by reading and problem solving with them - try and make learning fun!
  • Be creative in encouraging your children to speak up, particularly if they are struggling and need extra help.
  • Encourage them to speak about how their day was. Good, bad, what they did on the day etc.
  • Be PRESENT! – Turn up to plays, events, sports day, parent’s evenings and to every meeting where your child is being discussed.

See more by subscribing to our Newsletter here

- Jasmine Achiro, Admin Support Worker, CEN