Our Heroes: Burslem club's so fun pupils won't leave school

PUPILS have been enjoying their summer holidays – by going back to school for fun activities at their out-of-hours club.

The club at Haywood High, in Burslem, has become so popular with young people that many choose to go there, even when they can stay at home.

Come rain or shine, Sarah Cann and Joanne Goodwin can be found entertaining the pupils and ensuring they have plenty of things to do.

The two organisers are also heavily involved in raffles, stands at community events and other fund-raising activities. This helps keep the club afloat and means they can offer the sessions free of charge to youngsters.

Now Sarah and Joanne have been nominated for one of The Sentinel's Our Heroes awards in recognition of all their hard work. They have been put forward in the School Star of the Year category.

Joanne, aged 38, who lives in Biddulph, said: “It's nice to be recognised in this way. It feels like we are doing something worthwhile.

“We have quite a few people through the doors at the club. Although it's based in a school classroom, we have put posters up on the walls and the pupils can go outside as well.”

During term-time, the sessions operate every weekday morning between 7.30am and 8.50am and then again in the afternoons between 3pm and 6pm. The club is also open throughout the holidays.

Thirty-one year-old Sarah, who lives in Norton, said: “During the summer holiday, we've got lots of crafts and outdoor sports. We are also going to places like Dimensions.”

In term-time, Sarah splits her time between the club and working as an art technician at the school.

Her creative flair includes getting youngsters to make cards and models or gifts for special occasions.

Joanne even does some home visits in her own time to chat to families if they have any problems.

Club regulars are now hoping to set up their own garden at school, where they can grow fruit and vegetables.

The group caters for 11 to 16-year-olds and has almost 150 pupils on its books.

Sarah said: “We normally have between 15 and 22 kids a day come to it. We have some people who come every day, then there are those who just come for a couple of afternoons or in the holidays.”

Annette Barnett, a colleague at Haywood High, nominated Joanne and Sarah for the award.

She said: “They do a wonderful job providing activities for many vulnerable students and nothing is ever too much.

“During the six-week holiday, they are still working, providing trips and many other activities to keep our students off the streets and safe.”