PUPILS at Milford Haven School will be given a helping hand with their studies from three new 'learning coaches'.

Their role is to help learners achieve their goals and develop themselves by using a process called ‘action learning’, which takes into account pupils' preferred ways of working.

“We aim to build a positive environment for learning, focusing on the needs of an individual by providing one-to-one support,” said headteacher Rod Francis.

After an initial interview with each pupil, the coaches will work to create an action plans that will support pupils and address any problems that may be stopping them learning to the best of their ability, in an environment that is 'secure, calm, positive and fun'.

The coaches will also be working on an exciting new after-school programme for GCSE pupils.

The learning coach room is the perfect environment for pupils to complete work, providing resources, computers and internet access.

By taking full advantage of this, pupils will be able to catch up on any outstanding work, remain on task in all subjects, particularly those based heavily on coursework and will provide them with a variety of strategies to use when revising for exams.

The school hopes parents and carers will encourage pupils to attend these sessions - which run every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 3.10pm until 4.05pm - to help them to reach their full potential.

So who are the learning coaches?

Charlotte Edwards has gained a wealth of experience working in education firstly as a Cover Supervisor and then as an English teacher at Milford Haven School.

She has also taught drama and currently runs a drama club within school.

Jonathan Parker has been a teacher for 13 years and has worked in a variety of schools throughout Pembrokeshire.

Peter Sheward’s career has been centred on supporting children.

He thoroughly enjoyed his previous role as Cover Supervisor and was always ready to lend a helping hand with all areas of the curriculum. His passion is also for drama, and he has previously directed several school productions.

Peter has also been involved as an actor in several productions for television – you may have seen him in ‘Doctor Who’, ‘Merlin’ or ‘Casualty’.