STEP STARTER SACK programme
culturally sustaining early education for Gypsy/Traveller and Roma families
STEP Starter Sacks is an early years programme that promotes and supports a culturally sustaining model of early education for young children from Gypsy/Traveller and Roma communities. Our aim is that every child experiences the best start for going to school.
–STEP STARTER SACK PROGRAMME–
Many Gypsy/Travellers and Roma families do not take up the offer of early years education. STEP Starter Sacks is an early learning programme aiming to make connections between families and learning centres and improve participation in education. We promote a culturally sustaining model for early childhood education (ECE) to provide relevant education experiences and more equitable access to education for traditionally nomadic communities.
STEP Starter Sacks are free and are available to all Gypsy/Traveller and Roma families with young children in Scotland. The Sacks contain crafts materials, culturally-sustaining activities and resources designed by community members to encourage child-centred play at home and involve parents in their child’s learning. Activity cards with QR codes link to videos on our website ensuring accessible content. STEP distribute these free Sacks directly to your setting or sites. We will provide free training and support for staff to increase knowledge of barriers to accessing education for Gypsy/Traveller and Roma families. Find more information for families and our wide range of early years resources on the Starter Sack Programme pages here.
Read the practitioner guide and request your Starter Sacks below.
Read our practitioner guide and request your Sacks
Starter Sacks continue to impact Gypsy/Traveller families
Starter Sacks distributed
Participating local authorities
Families impacted
Learn about our programme delivery and impact
