This project is part-funded by the European Social Fund (ESF).
Fundraising event for local charity and University partner
West Smethwick Enterprise (WSE), partners on the Early Years Career Progression Pathways Project (EYCPP) with Birmingham City University and Newman University, hosted their Family Fun Day on Tuesday 31 May in the lead up to the Jubilee celebrations.
Posted 01 June 2022
Making children’s lives better
West Smethwick Enterprise is a local charity that began in 1984.
They have since grown over the years and now consist of five pre-School settings across Sandwell and Birmingham, offering family support services to the local residence.
The charity’s main aim is to improve the lives of deprived children and families within these areas and to make their lives better through the services we offer.
The charity is currently working in partnership with BCU to deliver the Early Years Career Progression Pathways project (EYCPP) – which is part-funded by the European Social Fund.
This is to offer a variety of upskilling sessions to the early years workforce, and those interested in joining the sector, as we were aware of the gap in the sector providing quality, qualified, experienced members of staff to work with children across the county.
Bringing the community together
As part of the ongoing support for the region, the team at West Smethwick Enterprise held a free event for the community to raise money for charity and bring those from the community together.
The fundraiser event has been organised by WSE to raise money that will be invested back into the local setting.
All money raised will be used to buy new resources for the children and improve the learning experiences of all that attend.
Laura Richmond, Director of Children’s Services says: “We’ve had an amazing turn out from the local community and our partners today for our fundraiser day.
“It’s heart-warming to see our families take time to come down to support us. We are planning to hold these events at our sites in Smethwick as well during the summer holidays to raise awareness of the services we offer and raise money to support our operations.
“Thank you to BCU for your ongoing support.”
The day included activities for children of all ages, such as face painting; games; crafts; junk modelling and much more.
Katerina Vitova, Placement Student at Ladywood Centre of Excellence, says: “I’ve brought my family here today for the fun day and its been a really great day.
“We’ve had face-painting, balloon making, arts and crafts, cakes and a raffle. A great way to bring the community together and have fun with the children.”
Vital university support
WSE has spoken positively about its support from BCU in the past, with sessions resulting in new relationships being built and participants developing key skills.
“We have been able to work with a variety of individuals from different backgrounds, with different skillsets, which has allowed us to reflect and develop our practice for the better,” Laura explains.
“We have valued the opportunity to develop our services and grow further, and this has been enhanced by working with Newman and BCU.”
This project is part-funded by the European Social Fund (ESF).
