The Early Learning Initiative’s Stretch to Learn Programme Baseline Evaluation in primary schools in the Dublin Docklands

Stretch to Learn has operated in seven Docklands primary schools since 2007. During the period March to June 2011 we undertook a mixed-method study involving qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys to provide baseline data on the contextual, socio-demographic, attitudinal and educational performance indicators of the schools that participated in the ELI’s Stretch to Learn programme. The study involved school principals, 2nd and 6th class students and parents. This information is intended to guide the ELI in future programme development and in the assessment of programme impact. Background The ELI Stretch to Learn programme aims to promote better educational outcomes for children and young people in the Docklands. It operates in seven local primary schools. A range of educational supports and activities are provided to students in-class and at the National College of Ireland (NCI).These include literacy, numeracy and educational guidance programmes, activities that celebrate student achievement and initiatives that aim to enhance parental involvement in children’s learning. This study provides baseline data on the schools, students and parents involved in Stretch to Learn to inform the future direction of the programme. It will also support future evaluation. The baseline data provides the educational and social context in which Stretch to Learn operates. It provides socio-demographic information about the students and parents who participate in the programme, attitudes to education and key educational performance indicators of 2nd and 6th class children