Children living in poverty start primary school up to a year behind middle-income children in terms of cognitive skills, creating an educational attainment gap between rich and poor. Over the last 8 years, poverty levels in Northern Ireland have risen exponentially, leading to more young people needing help and support to thrive.

Last year 84% of pupils on the Aspire programme achieved a minimum of 5 GCSEs including English and Maths A*-C grade and 100% of all pupils progressed on to further education. Long term engagement is key, with the majority of these young people having attended the Aspire programme since they were in primary school.

ALMT funding will primarily pay for the staff time to deliver the following activities:
• Weekly after-school homework sessions will increase academic attainment, school attendance and aspiration in four different schools for 40 primary children.
• Three skills academies will be run during the year providing opportunities for young people to explore new hobbies, be creative and improve their opportunities without a cost attached. Each academy runs outside school hours bringing 30 children from both catholic and protestant schools together to develop new skills in areas such as art, cooking, music, gaming, skateboarding and musical theatre.
• A three day Summer scheme for 35 young people creating a safe space for young people who have attended the academies to learn, develop and have fun. Again, this programme brings communities together whilst both celebrating and acknowledging different beliefs.
• Organising a uniform drive for 250 young people across the area.
• Building community relations with local decision makers and forging links with other organisations to create an updated anti-poverty strategy.