The 'What Can We Do?' scheme encourages groups of children to identify what they would like to change in the local community and then helps them make it a reality. Each team of students is networked with a 'Power Partner' to advise them. This is usually a volunteer from business who enjoys the challenge of piloting one of the projects to a successful outcome with support from Twist. Successful projects have made a real impact and garnered plenty of publicity: North Beckton Primary School improved safety in Beckton Park; Scott Wilkie Primary School started their own healthy eating fruit and vegetable shop; West Ham Church Primary School turned an area of derelict land into a garden and open space for the school to use.

 

 

 

 

Twist has also developed the ‘What Can We Do?’ Gold Transition Project for students moving into secondary school. It is led by Year 7 students at the tricky transitional time of starting of their secondary career. They team up with Year 6 students in feeder primaries, advising and mentoring them. This helps Year 7 students establish themselves as heroes and award-winners, gaining confidence and a sense of responsibility.

  

 

More than 200 children have developed their leadership potential on more than 40 different Twist projects. They have collaborated with the Council, with the police and with numerous other agencies in Newham, as well as with experts outside the borough.

 

 

 

The students involved in these varied projects now believe they have the responsibility as well as the ability to effect change. ‘What Can We Do?’ has had a lasting impact on their sense of inclusion and empowerment.