RPC Take Charge Programme Expands to Forestdale School, Croydon
Over the past few months, the RPC Take Charge programme has expanded its reach, bringing its transformative support to Forestdale School in Croydon. This partnership, spearheaded by Claire, a dedicated staff member at Forestdale, has had a profound impact on the school community—empowering parents, students, and families alike.
The Beginning of a Collaborative Journey
Claire’s journey with the RPC Take Charge programme began with a chance meeting between herself, Sarah (an outreach development tutor for the programme), and the National Autistic Society (NAS). Intrigued by the programme’s potential to support parents and students at Forestdale, Claire reached out to Suk, the project manager, to learn more. Convinced of the programme’s benefits, Claire organised a meeting with parents, setting the stage for the programme’s delivery at the school.
Bringing the Programme to Life at Forestdale
The programme delivered a series of Take Charge sessions and mentoring opportunities within the school as well as at The Write Time school building, where the programme typically takes place. The in-school mentoring, led by Sarah, played a crucial role in reassuring parents and providing their children with consistent support. Families of all types, including couples and single parents, engaged with the programme, finding the early intervention and tailored support invaluable.
The occupational therapist’s on-site visits were particularly impactful, offering parents practical strategies to manage daily behaviour challenges and deepening their understanding of the support available. This comprehensive approach addressed a wide range of needs, fostering positive outcomes for everyone involved.
A Ripple Effect of Positive Change
The results of the programme at Forestdale have been nothing short of remarkable. Claire enthusiastically shared how the once-quiet and reserved children gradually opened up, gaining confidence and improving their communication skills. Parents, who initially felt isolated, began forming connections and developing supportive relationships with one another. One parent, Natalie, was so inspired by the programme’s impact that she has since become a volunteer to support other parents.
For Claire, the programme’s success is deeply personal. Not only did she facilitate the programme’s introduction at Forestdale, but she also participated as a parent. Her daughter, Emily, was one of the children mentored by Sarah. Through Sarah’s tailored approach, Emily blossomed—gaining the confidence to speak up in class and communicate openly, something she had never done before. The change in Emily was echoed by other children, who began to express themselves more freely, bringing toys to share and engaging in conversations with adults.
A Lasting Impact on Families and the School Community
The impact of mentoring extended beyond the children. Parents also experienced significant growth, improving their communication with the school and building a strong network of support among themselves. Claire noted that the programme helped to bridge a crucial gap between parents and the school, making it easier for them to seek and receive the support they needed.
On a personal level, Claire described how the programme transformed her own life. It helped her develop self-worth, set healthier boundaries, and break free from toxic relationships. The confidence she gained through the programme has had a ripple effect, positively influencing her family and her career. As a result of these transformative experiences, Forestdale School is committed to continuing the partnership with the RPC Take Charge programme and highly recommends it to others.
A Bright Future Ahead
The journey of the RPC Take Charge programme with Forestdale School has been incredible, but it is only the beginning. The success of the initiative has inspired a nearby school to explore setting up their own cohort, further extending the programme’s reach and impact.
As Claire and the Forestdale community look ahead, they do so with renewed confidence, stronger relationships, and a deep sense of support. The RPC Take Charge programme has not only made a difference in the lives of individual families but has also strengthened the bonds within the entire school community—paving the way for continued growth and success.
