Quarriers Opt In project is currently busy delivering its transition programme in Pollok primary schools and  Primary 7 pupils are benefiting from the support offered by the projects experienced staff as they are encouraged to talk about their fears and anxieties about the move to secondary school.

The Opt In project has been working in the Greater Pollok and Newlands / Auldburn area for almost 8 years and have helped thousands of youngsters become better prepared for the move to ‘big’ school.  Pupils still have concerns about bullying, losing their way and whether they will make new friends and project staff are on hand to reassure them that no one gets their head flushed down the toilet and that everyone is keen to make new friends, so it’s a great time to create new friendships that sometimes last a life time.

The Opt In project works alongside teaching staff to plan the delivery of a fun and dynamic programme of activities which encourage primary 7 pupils to learn and share together.  Pupils get the opportunity to compete in quizzes, practice new subjects, plan their route to school, organise their school bag and, most importantly, talk about the things which are worrying them about the move from primary to secondary.

The programme, delivered in local primary schools helps young people undertake the sometimes daunting move with greater confidence and improved skills and as a result they settle into secondary school quicker and become more effective learners.

Supported by funding from the Fairer Scotland Fund co-ordinated by Glasgow Community Planning Partnership the project has built up a wealth of experience in schools in the South West and has continued to refine its transition programme so that it encourages positive learning in a way that young people enjoy and remember.

In addition to the primary school based programme the Opt In project works in secondary schools to support S1 pupils who are finding it more difficult to settle in, and who might benefit from additional support to address their behaviour or social skills issues.

The aim of the Opt In project is to support all S1 pupils to become settled and confident learners and to make it easier for them to reach their educational potential.

In the year ahead the Opt In project aims to extend it’s service to the Govan and Craigton area and is looking forward to forging new relationships with the staff and pupils of Govan and Craigton primary and secondary schools.

If you want to know more about the project contact us on 0141 891 8210 or email optin@quarriers.org.uk