In the white working-class estates of Ramsgate underachievement and lack of self esteem have been endemic among secondary age teenagers. In 2004 previously failing schools were replaced by the brand new Marlowe Academy with its private funding, striking modern architecture, and its new focus on social and emotional literacy, which was spearheaded by headteacher Ian Johnson. Sixth formers like East European refugee Dritan have seen a marked difference in trust and respect between pupils and teachers in the new school. The school has identified Year 6/Year 7 transition as a key area for putting emotional literacy at the heart of its drive to make every child matter. The twelve- week 'Butterflies' transition course makes a point of involving parents throughout the course, and encourages them to express themselves.

Video Series: Every Child Matters
Release Date 2008