The NIC Learning Zone

The Learning Zone at the National Ice Centre is a state-of-the-art computer suite that was opened in June 2003 by Olympic Gold Medallist Jane Torvill. The Department for Children, Schools and Families and The National Ice Centre joined in partnership to create the Study Support Centre which is based inside the National Ice Centre. It is the first Study Support Centre to be based within a national sporting venue. All ice sports and dance are used to motivate learning as is the entertainment element provided by The Nottingham Trent FM Arena.

Target Audience

The Playing for Success initiative is targeted at underachieving young people. It aims to contibute to raising attainment, especially in Numeracy and Literacy, bringing the national curriculum levels of lower achieving pupils closer to the average expected nationally for their age.

There is an emphasis on personalised learning where pupils are able to choose the format in which they wish to present their work.

Each school are asked to select fifteen pupils who are invited to attend the Learning Zone for a period of ten weeks where they have the oportunity to improve their Literacy, Numeracy and ICT skills through a range of fun and challenging activities.

Pupils also recieve up to two coached ice skating lessons which have proved to considerably increase self esteem and self confidence.

At the end of the ten week programme a graduation ceremony is held where staff and parents are invited to celebrate the hard work and commitment demonstrated by the pupils. Certificates and prizes are awarded and special guests have included members of the Nottingham Panthers team and a Trent fm DJ.

See EDUSKATE activities for 'programme'.

 

Students Currently Attending The Learning Zone

Walter Halls Primary School	Nottingham Academy Secondary School
Milford Primary School	Scotholme Primary School