̨��swag Grange Academies Trust (OGAT) has appointed a Director of Family and Community Support to expand its existing efforts in engaging families and communities seamlessly with its academies.

Claire Jackson has been appointed to the new role at the award-winning, multi-academy trust, and will be responsible for building exceptional provision within OGAT academies and family hubs. Commenting on her new role, she said:

“I am honoured to be a part of an innovative family and community strategy that will cement our schools as the heart of their communities. This role brings together my two big passions - education and family support.”

Bringing a wealth of experience to the role, Claire has previously held a range of positions across early years and family support; from working in nurseries and being part of a care team at a children’s hospice to managing a children’s centre, primary teaching and working at secondary school level as an intervention teacher.

Family hubs provide support and services for families and children in a coordinated and holistic manner, acting as a central point for various services and resources. Services include early education, healthcare, employment support, and family support.

There is often a focus on early intervention and prevention to address family issues before they escalate into more significant problems. Services work with parents to provide information, guidance, and support to help them in their role as caregivers.

Each hub actively engages with its local community to understand needs, whilst recognising that communities are diverse and can offer services which are tailored to the specific needs of each family. As such, the specifics of each hub vary from one locality to another.

Across OGAT, there are four primary academies which host hubs; based in Barnsley, Doncaster, Scunthorpe and Wakefield. The strategic location of these ensures children receive the support they need to reach developmental milestones in preparation for school and makes it easier for families to access essential services and support, particularly in disadvantaged or deprived areas.

In her new role, Mrs Jackson will now work to develop an enhanced provision for Hub sites to offer families such as;

• Maths and English courses to increase parent and carer confidence in supporting children with their school work

• Opportunities to develop parent and carers’ skills in the workplace through adult learning and volunteering

• Support for families of children with special educational needs

Lee Wilson, Deputy CEO at OGAT, said:

“Our approach to connecting families and communities is all about making sure that home and school work hand in hand, like a powerful team in a child's life. We also understand the tough times we're going through, and we're here to point families in the right direction for the help they need. By working closely together, we can ensure our children get the best possible support.”