This programme has been developed through collaborative working and embedding evidence-based practice between, YWA, EA, and Department of Education. This partnership enables YWA to build capacity of our front line service providers so they can develop an informed response to reducing educational disadvantage in partnership with local schools, children , young people and their communities.

The former Minister of Education, Peter Weir, appointed an Expert Panel 1 September 2020 to examine the links between educational underachievement and socio-economic background and draw up an action plan for change that will ensure all children and young people, regardless of background, are given best start in life.

Youth Work Alliance was successful in securing funding under the Government's R.E.D document. YWA will work collaboratively with EA, DE, and our member groups, on Area 4 Action ‘v’ of the Fair Start document with the aim of removing barriers to education for children and young people.

Youth Work Alliance, in partnership with Education Authority, has worked in partnership with EA Youth Services and our member groups, Shantallow Community Residents Association and Dungannon Youth Resource Centre.

Each of the partners will work together to co-design and co-deliver the Learning Inclusively Together Project (L.I.T.) with the aim of improving educational attainment and personal outcomes for children and young people. This will be facilitated through innovative youth work methodologies and a collaborative whole community approach, which is young person centered.

The pilot will involve the following delivery partners:

• Youth Work Alliance and EA Youth Services
• Shantallow Community Residents' Association
• St Brigid’s College
• Dungannon Youth Resource Centre
• St Patrick's College
• Lisnaskea Youth Centre
• St Kevin’s College
• Dungannon High School
• Ardcarnet Youth Centre