School support
School support
For many young people, progressing in mainstream education simply doesn’t work.
When adding a traumatic experience, lack of support at home, or simply being without a positive role model, those same young people can face a future that feels insurmountable.
As Nottinghamshire schools continue to face limited funding and resources, these young people are more likely to drop out, be excluded or lose their way, becoming vulnerable targets for criminal or violent groups and individuals.
By stepping in, we can uncover what is impacting attendance or leading to poor behaviour. We can start to break down these barriers.
We help young people to become the best version of themselves, find the confidence to commit to education and grow the belief that they can create a different future for themselves.
The statistics paint a stark picture.
In the spring term of 2023/24, there were 3,100 permanent exclusions across England, rising to 4,200 in the autumn term of 2023/24. The most common reason? Persistent disruptive behaviour. These aren’t just numbers; they represent young lives disconnected, potential unfulfilled, and futures at risk.
In Nottingham, the challenge is even more acute: our school exclusion rate is nearly double the national average, underscoring the urgent need for tailored, compassionate intervention.
We believe no young person should be defined by their toughest start or by a system that hasn’t yet met their needs. Our approach is deeply hands-on and personal, rooted in our comprehensive Five Pillar approach, with education as a central and transformative force.
We offer tailored alternative education provision for those who have struggled in traditional settings. We focus on developing essential functional skills, ensuring young people gain foundational knowledge vital for future success. But our support goes beyond academics.
Through an integrated approach, we also use:
- The discipline and focus of boxing and other physical activities to channel energy and improve self-control.
- The guidance of one-to-one mentoring to build trust, address underlying issues, and foster personal growth.
- The insight of personal development workshops and counselling to help them process trauma, manage emotions, and develop coping mechanisms.
- And crucial employability support to help them see the tangible outcomes of their educational journey.
These aren’t just activities or lessons; they are powerful tools. Tools to build confidence, to improve focus, to spark positive change, and to empower young people to navigate challenges, improve their behaviour, and ultimately unlock their academic potential.
Empowered education
Our mentors and coaches are experts at building trust. They’re skilled at engaging students who might otherwise disengage.
We’re strongly supported by a network of teachers, school leaders, and educational partners. This collective strength ensures our interventions are effective.
They’re seamlessly integrated into the school environment. And they deliver real, measurable results for students and staff.
Molly’s Story
From exclusion to inspiration. How do you help a student come through stronger, more confident, and ready to shape their future? Let’s look at Molly’s story
Molly came to Switch Up after being excluded from school.
Having lost her father at a young age, Molly started spending time with older children. By the age of 12, she was running away from home and getting in trouble with the police.
Through her work with mentor Amy, and tutor Chris, Molly is looking forward to a new, more positive future.
She’s not just back on track; she’s inspiring others through her success.
“I’m so grateful to Switch Up. I now have a purpose in life. I am attending education sessions at Switch Up and will be returning to school. I’m planning on becoming a cabin crew member – it’s my dream job!”
Molly / Switch Up Attendee
BE PART OF SOMETHING BIGGER
Let’s empower more young people to find the joy and inspiration that comes from education. Get in touch with the Switch Up team today.
