Goal: To be at heart of the community and develop positive links withyoung people
Contact: Dyke House Community School and Technology College on 01429 266377
Dyke House School in Hartlepool operates amid high deprivation and"challenging circumstances," says head teacher Bill Jordan. Neverthelessit has undergone a transformation reflected in a dramatic improvement inGCSE results.
A big factor is the school's commitment to partnership working withagencies including health and social services. More recently it becamethe permanent base for Dyke House Neighbourhood Policing Team,consisting of three police officers and three community supportofficers.
They help and advise local families and play an important role in schoollife, taking part in citizenship lessons and assemblies as well asrunning activities such as a football team.
Officers don't get involved in school discipline but their presence doeshave a calming influence, says Jordan. "They're not screeching in withcars and flashing lights but are a calm presence."
Jordan and other school staff have been out on patrol with officers, toback up efforts to curb underage drinking. That in turn has given them abetter understanding of issues outside school.
