What is Family Learning?
Family Learning is learning that takes place among family members and friends, including parents, grandparents and carers. It's about discovering and exploring things together as a family. It can include everything from making a book to singing and dancing!
Family Learning programmes take place in partnership with schools or other organisations such as libraries, Children’s Centres, and theatres. Families can learn in a relaxed, supportive atmosphere, working on ideas to reinforce and extend learning at home. Children will get more out of school, and for many adults a Family Learning course can be the initial step towards further educational opportunities and training or taking on a job.
Why is Family Learning Important?
Research has shown that families are the first and most important teachers and that parental support is a major factor throughout a child’s education. Children spend 85% of their waking hours at home, leaving a massive potential for out of school learning.
Family learning helps adult family members to gain confidence to provide vital help for their children, and also helps to promote good relationships within families. It offers another chance for adults to return to learning and to be aware of all the other learning opportunities on offer.
Ofsted Review July 2009
“Parents were very positive about how their confidence, communication and interpersonal skills had improved considerably since attending family learning. Parenting skills improved along with wider learning. Parents commented on how they were better able to manage their children’s behaviour, communicate with them and support their learning at home effectively.
Children made good progress in their learning and attainment. Teachers commented favourably about their improved concentration, attainment and behaviour in classrooms.”
Quotes From Family Learning in Westminster:-
“I hope they can arrange more workshops like this. It is like a lifetime opportunity for me.” Adult
"Very good for creativity as well as bonding time between parent and child. I enjoyed the many steps taken to get to the finished piece." Adult
“I never thought that I could do it… Thanks for helping me in discovering such an artistic skill.” Adult “I have really enjoyed it. I thought I wouldn’t because I was one of the oldest but its great fun to get involved with my family and everyone else. Brilliant! Keep doing more.” Child
“The workshop had many things to do and I absolutely loved it. I also loved the fact that every time I came it was fun-packed and enjoyable for any members of the society; I believe these workshops should be carried on. P.S. If you do another workshop PICK ME!”
Click here for current Family Learning Workshops
