Further "second chance" schools established
The European Commission, in cooperation with Member States, has identified four towns where "second chance" schools are to be established. The new schools are an extension of the pilot project, launched in Marseille in December 1996, on the initiative of Mrs. Edith Cresson, Commissioner responsible for research education and training. The aim of the "second chance" schools is to offer young unemployed people lacking basic skills and paper qualifications a new opportunity for professional re-insertion. The characteristics of each school respond to local needs, but are based on the following elements: partnership of local authority, social services and potential employers; teaching methods based on the needs of the individual; a central role for new technologies; and siting in deprived urban areas. Second chance schools are to be established in the following towns: - Bilbao, Spain; - Catania, Italy; - Hämeenlinna, Finland; - Attika metropolitan region, Greece. In addition, the Portuguese government has confirmed its participation in the pilot project, and at least two other Member States are expected to confirm their participation before summer 1997.
Countries
Greece, Spain, Finland, Italy