Truancy awareness project wins award

Known as ‘TAP on tour’ the project become a roaring success and to the delight of the group was given a prestigious Philip Lawrence Award, in recognition of an outstanding project devised by young people that makes a positive contribution to society.
 
Linda Farmer, Head of Lea Manor Youth Centre and one of the TAP project leaders said,

"We were so pleased that the young people have received this award in recognition of all their hard work. TAP on Tour was one of just 8 winners from 100s of applications from across the country, needless to say the young people themselves are over the moon”
 
The drama, entitled ‘Just One More Day’, tells the story of a young person who doesn’t want to go to school because of an upset stomach.

However throughout the performance it is revealed that the young person is not really ill and is actually is avoiding a spelling test!

The drama focuses on the importance of school attendance and the consequences of not attending.
 
The drama is adapted so it can be performed for children from foundation age through to high school, and to date the group has performed to 18 schools across the town.
 
Paul James one of Luton’s Education Welfare Officers who worked with Linda on the project added:

“The drama is extremely humorous and interactive but sends a very serious message to children and young people about the importance of attending school every day. 

The drama aims to help children establish good patterns of attendance early on.”
 
The project is supported by Lea Manor High School and they are delighted with its success. Head Teacher Christine Lenihan said

“I am sure that the TAP project will have left a lasting impression on the young people involved and all of those who have watched the performance which dealt with real issues facing young people today.

I am very proud of the Lea Manor student’s and I hope they continue to make a positive contribution to their communities. "