Cradle to Career Programme

Holyrood Academy’s involvement in the Cradle-to-Career (C2C) Programme, in partnership with Chard Community Hub, reflects a powerful, place-based approach aimed at supporting every child and family in our community from early years all the way through to adulthood.

What is Cradle to Career?

The C2C model, pioneered by The Reach Foundation, aims to break down barriers for disadvantaged children by integrating support across education, health, family, and community services, creating a seamless pipeline of care and opportunity. Its mission is to ensure that every child has strong foundations at every life stage.

Holyrood Academy’s Role in Chard

  • Community Connector: Under the leadership of Headteacher Dave MacCormick, Holyrood Academy has expanded its vision beyond the classroom, working closely with 12 feeder primaries to strengthen transitions and support for Year 6 families.

  • Convening Local Leaders: The school hosts a regular Community Leaders’ Breakfast, bringing together key figures from local government, health services, civic groups, and Chard Community Hub to identify shared challenges and co-create solutions.

  • Targeted Support Initiatives: Focus areas include early years development, tackling food poverty, and addressing youth violence. The partnership with Chard Community Hub has enabled the creation of a Centre Manager role, enhancing food outreach programs and boosting early years activities.

The Hub is the Heart

Chard Community Hub provides an inclusive space where families can access essential services such as food support (Fridge, Pantry, Mobile Pantry), Repair Hubs, pre-loved school uniform, mental health support and access to opportunities for learning and growth. Our ongoing collaboration with Holyrood ensures that these services are accessible to those who need them most.

Real-World Impact

  • National recognition: Holyrood’s C2C-driven model has been praised by the Somerset Lord Lieutenant and featured in Exeter University’s Heart of the Community research for its success in supporting disadvantaged families and increasing social mobility. [chardandil...news.co.uk],

  • Bridging the Gap: Through a unified strategy of “reaching down” to feeder schools and “reaching out” into the wider community, the programme is making education coherent and equitable, closing gaps early and supporting families when they need it most.

Why it Matters for Chard

  • Building stronger futures: The C2C approach means fewer barriers between birth and career launch, offering each child and family tailored support across education, health, and wellbeing.

  • Community-led solutions: Local stakeholders shape and drive what happens, making ensure all activities are relevant and effective.

  • A pipeline of support: From early years to career readiness, children and parents encounter a connected, caring ecosystem rather than fragmented services.

How You Can Get Involved

Chard Community Hub and Holyrood Academy welcome your involvement:

  • Volunteer at the Community Fridge or Pantry Schemes.

  • Join the Community Leaders’ Breakfast to help shape local solutions. Email Linda Driscoll at Holyrood Academy if you would like to know more: ldriscoll@holyrood.bep.ac

  • Support early years or family outreach efforts through fundraising or volunteering.