This event marked the start of a joint partnership to help parents of the school community to better support their children's education and future goals. 

Building Connections for Educational Success 

The meeting provided a chance for parents and educators to discuss how they can work together to improve educational opportunities for families in the school community. Fenland Parent Power, co-founded by The Brilliant Club, Anglia Ruskin University, and the University of Cambridge, aims to tackle educational inequality by giving parents the knowledge and resources they need to understand higher education. 

Lou Barratt, a Parent Leader with Fenland Parent Power, spoke passionately to parents at TWA that evening. When asked about her highlight from the meeting, she said, "Seeing parents so engaged and passionate about their children's future was truly inspiring. I loved how quickly both parents and teachers responded to questions, leaving with valuable insights to consider." This enthusiasm reflects the core mission of Fenland Parent Power: to empower parents to take an active role in their children's educational journeys and to build campaigns that tackle issues affecting families in Fenland.  

Insights from The Wisbech Academy's PTFA 

A representative from TWA's PTFA shared their excitement about the partnership. "As parents, we often worry about our children's futures and how to support them in pursuing further education," they said.  

"It was really inspiring to hear Lou Barratt speak this evening – I feel reassured that this programme will provide us with information and resources that will help us demystify Further Education, for example - the university application process, grants, housing etc. Many parents, like myself, may not have gone to university or feel unsure about how to navigate these systems.”  

Another attendee from the PTFA said: “This initiative will enable us to help our children succeed, whether they choose university or vocational courses. We want the best for our kids, and knowing we have access to this kind of support makes a big difference." 

Activities of Fenland Parent Power 

Fenland Parent Power is committed to engaging parents through various activities that are designed to enhance their understanding of higher education. These include: 

1. University Trips: Parents and students have participated in bespoke trips to university campuses, allowing them to experience university life first-hand and meet current students. 

2. Local Campaigns: The group has identified key issues affecting educational access, such as transportation barriers from the Fenland area. Parents have come together to campaign for better transport options, engaging with local authorities to advocate for change. 

Through these activities, Fenland Parent Power empowers parents and carers in Fenland to make meaningful changes in their children’s futures. 

The Role of The Brilliant Club 

School Principal Dr. Rachel Lawrence-Byron previously served as Curriculum Development Director at Researchers in Schools (a programme previously run by The Brilliant Club) highlighted the importance of this partnership. "The Brilliant Club is dedicated to helping less advantaged children access competitive universities," she explained. "Fenland Parent Power and TWA working together means we can reach more families and support them in navigating the educational system." 

Looking Ahead and How to get Involved 

All parents and carers at TWA are invited to join Fenland Parent Power. Parent Power meetings are held approximately every 6 weeks and include information sessions on topics such as university applications, financial aid, and other important aspects of higher education. The initiative aims to inform and motivate parents and students. 

Through this partnership, both organisations are committed to creating a supportive community where every child has the chance to succeed academically. By bringing together parents, educators, and local institutions, Fenland Parent Power and The Wisbech Academy are taking important steps towards building a brighter future for students in Fenland. 

To join Fenland Parent Power or to find out more, please contact Sophie Waring: 

Email: parentpowerfenland@thebrilliantclub.org 

Tel: 07398 182824