National Conference on after-school programmes this weekend, with a "TEAM'' theme: Teaching Educational Activities and Motivation.

Sponsored by the Department's own after-school programme, the workshops are aimed at school supervisors and workers, other child care professionals, volunteers and parents.

At a press conference yesterday, the Ministry's youth coordinator Mr. Keith Smith introduced guest speakers, Mrs. Sandra Vella and Mrs. Melinda Hollingsworth from Homewood, Alabama.

The pair have gained national recognition in the US for their work in after-school care, and co-authored the child care book "Go Ahead, Extend My Day''. They will be making a joint presentation at the conference based on the book.

Mrs. Vella, who will also deliver the keynote address, is the community education director for her city's schools and founder of the Homewood City Schools Extended Day Programme.

A school age programme administrator for the past 12 years, Mrs. Hollingsworth is the programme specialist for Homewood's after-school scheme. Both women said that they were looking forward to meeting those involved in the Island's programmes.

Nine local educators will also conduct workshops, focusing on such subjects as parental involvement, curriculum development, building a child's self-image and fun forms of learning.

The first conference session will take place tonight at the Number One Passenger Terminal on Front Street. Registration will begin at 6.45, followed by the official opening ceremony at 7.30.

Tomorrow, participants will take part in a full day of workshops at the Hamilton Princess Hotel.

Anyone wishing to participate in the conference should contact the Department of Youth, Sport and Recreation today. A registration fee of $12 is required.

TEAM-MATES -- Mrs. Melinda Hollinsworth (left) and Mrs. Sandra Vella are in Bermuda to share their after school programme skills at a two day conference.