This innovative programme – begun in 2007 – works with young people from London Boroughs and other urban areas who are disaffected or disadvantaged. Many of them are already in danger of exclusion or are adversely affected by gang culture or by local issues around crime or drugs. We want to help these young people to see there is an alternative future before they fall into that culture themselves.

We work primarily with 11-14 year olds on a preventative model, believing firmly that early intervention is preferable to a difficult and painful cure.

The programme is centred around a 5-day residential opportunity for 12-14 young people, together with teachers from their school. Partnership with referring schools and local agencies is key and enables us to effectively assess the needs of the young people, and ensure their continued positive development after the end of the programme.

The London and Urban Schools Programme offers a unique opportunity for reflection and personal development.

In 2011 we will run a minimum of 10 residential weeks and aim to work with at least 140 young people. Over three years we want to increase the number of weeks so that we are working with over 200 students every year. If you know young people or schools who would benefit (including your own), or if you would like to help fund this programme please get in touch.