Who we are

Over the last 11 years, ROWA! has developed a community literacy and Skills for Life strategy based on a 'cradle to grave' approach and working closely with local partners. Targeting areas of high social need, ROWA! works with the key players in local communities as well as strategic bodies at sub-regional and regional level. ROWA! includes schools in its community literacy strategy while emphasising the family as a vehicle for learning. From an early stage, the emphasis has been on learning as a 'fun activity' and celebration of achievement at levels.

The number of people who have benefited from ROWA! activity has steadily increased. For example, the number of people (adults and children) involved from areas funded through the Government's Single Regeneration Budget (SRB) rose from 2,446 in 1997/98 to 23,440 in 2000/01. It has worked with over 95% of primary and secondary schools in Derbyshire and, since 2000, over 100 Nottinghamshire schools. ROWA! has worked with more than 50 employers and trade unions and over 500 employees have gained qualifications and improved their work related skills.

ROWA! has become increasingly involved in local and regional activity at a strategic level. With its extensive experience in community-focused literacy work, ROWA! is seen as a useful, independent partner with a wider perspective resulting from its all-age focus. In addition, ROWA! is increasingly used by external organisations as evaluators and consultants, as well as providing training.