From Surestart
Dear Parents and Carers,
Unfortunately, I write to inform you that Friday 25th September will be the last Whippersnappers at Ellen Brown.
Why Has This Happened?
Due to the popularity and success of the session the decision has been for Whippersnappers to deliver borough wide. As a result this meant localities such as ours that had 3 sessions (Ellen Brown, Dockland Settlement, Pilgrims Way) had to reduce them to 2 so as delivery across the borough was equitable.
Why Ellen Brown?
We know that Whippersnappers has had a presence in Ellen Brown for a number of years and we know that parents and children always looked forward to it, which made making the decision a tough one, but it was felt there is quite a lot happening south of the locality (Kintore Way Children Centre, Ellen Brown, South Bermondsey Children Centre, Rotherhithe Family Centre, Rotherhithe Under 5’s Centre) then north of the locality (Redriff Primary School, Dockland Settlement) and on that basis the session has to come to an end.
What Happens FROM OCTOBER?
Sessions at Dockland Settlement (Thursday) and Pilgrims Way (Saturday) will continue, however, from October both will operate in 10 week blocks and Pilgrims Way will become a term time only session. Also from October parents will need to book their child’s place for sessions beforehand and to choose a preferred venue and stick with it as we want to ensure both venues are attracting a wide range of parents.
WHAT IF I DON’T HAVE THE MEANS TO TRAVEL TO OTHER VENUES?
We understand that there will be implications to you as a result this and whilst Whippersnappers will not be coming back to Ellen Brown, it would be useful to know what those implications are so as the team can look at alternatives, if need be. I would also encourage you to attend the next Parent and Carers Forum Wednesday 30th September 10am @ South Bermondsey Children Centre, Tenda Road SE16 3PN, where other parents will be meeting to discuss among other things, service delivery and a member of the team will be present to listen to any concerns/suggestions you have.
If you have any further queries please do not hesitate to contact me.
Regards
Sherry Glasgow
Information & Administration Manager
