The Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports, Agriculture and Lands and the YMCA (Y) of the Cayman Islands have renewed the contract allowing the Y to continue managing and operating the Extended After-School Programme (EASP). The programme is currently offered at 9 Primary and High School sites, servicing 15 government schools in Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac, and provides constructive after-school activities for as many as 1600 students.
The Y began operating the programme in September 2015. Since then, it has provided parents with a safe after-school environment for their children during the critical after-school hours, many of whom rely on this essential resource. The EASP goes well beyond basic childcare, as the objectives of the programme are to improve participants' social, emotional and academic competencies and provide activities with a focus on character development and instilling core values.
“The Y is a great example of the community coming together to support, shape, and guide our youth by providing them with the tools necessary to reach their best selves,” said Hon. Julianna O’Connor-Connolly, Minister of Education, “we are looking forward to working closely with the Y over the next 2 years to continue to enhance our after-school structure.”
"After-school programming was highlighted as a key need when the Y came to the Cayman Islands five years ago and truly reflects the mission of the Y," stated YMCA Operations Director, Gillian Roffey, "The primary purpose of the YMCA is Youth Development and through the EASP, we aim to maximise the potential of every child. We are so pleased to have been given the opportunity to continue to impact Cayman's youth through this programme, teaching them life skills and contributing towards the development of influential leaders for our future."
Ms. Roffey says there have been several areas of particular focus of the EASP that have contributed to the programme’s progression over the past two years. These include an enhanced programme curriculum, greater parental involvement, and improved relationships with school leaders, expanded community partnerships and initiatives. There has also been a persistent focus for staff and volunteers on quality assurance and safety.
“The YMCA is committed to working diligently and making the necessary adjustments to build on the strengths of the EASP and ensure alignment with the Cayman Islands Strategic Plan for Education - producing greater, measurable results,” Ms. Roffey added. “We are grateful to the Ministry of Education and for all of the corporate and private support that makes this programme possible, investing in our most critical asset – our youth.”
For more information about the EASP, log on to www.ymcacayman.ky, email [email protected] or call 922.2432.