The Gloucestershire Resource Centre is probably best known for its Scrapstore and the fascinating waste materials available for re-use in creative projects but maybe less known for its commitment to selling an excellent range of multicultural resources for children.

We've decided to expand this service by loaning out a Resource Box to early years' settings and primary schools with a range of these items to encourage, stimulate and provide opportunities for children. It could be used to support a particular event such as a training day or used over a period of time where a wide variety of group activities take place. Learning about children's lives in other countries or different family life styles, art from different cultures, language and food appreciation etc are great ways to inspire and engender respect.

We believe that children should be able to grow up with positive images of themselves, their families and their peers and to be able to enjoy their own cultures, religions and languages without discrimination. These resources are a wonderful window to the world helping to break down barriers, dispel stereotypes and nurture positive attitudes.

As a group of staff at the GRC we run an 'in-house' book club where we read and discuss selected books so that we can explore what's current and keep us informed. We regularly encourage children from the on-site after school and holiday club, Cool Runnings, to review the books on our behalf. They really enjoy trying out new books and we value their opinions and learn a great deal from their feedback. The Resource Box could be used in a similar way.

We do recognise the restraints of budgets so the Resource Box could be an ideal opportunity to extend the book range for children and try things out before making a financial commitment. We hope these resources will assist your good practice, spark curiosity and broaden your children's horizons.

If you are interested in knowing more about the Resource Box please telephone Sarah Stephenson 01452 504442.

For general information about the Centre please visit www.grcltd.org

Gloucestershire Resource Centre, City Works, Alfred St. Gloucester, GL1 4D