Brightstar Futures (boxing-based alternative education)

An alternative education programme run by Brightstar, the Shifnal-based boxing charity, for young people aged 10-16 across the West Midlands who find mainstream school challenging or are at risk of exclusion or becoming NEET. Small groups of 8-10 work with at least two staff, many with lived experience, using a trauma-informed approach that combines boxing training, mentoring with a cognitive behaviour approach, and education towards qualifications including first aid, boxing leaders, sport and fitness level 2 and mental health awareness; young people can achieve up to nine qualifications in a school year. Schools can refer pupils for one to five days a week (up to 18 hours). Sessions run 9.30am-2.30pm from venues in Shifnal, Donnington and Shrewsbury, and participants get free evening membership of the boxing club. Brightstar currently supports more than 180 children across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, Wolverhampton and the West Midlands.

Children & young people, NEET / at risk of exclusion

For ages 10-16 (the Telford & Wrekin directory lists 11-16), so no single age filter band is an exact fit; the 5-11 and 12-16 filters are overlapping search bands. Trauma-informed provision, at least 2 staff per group of 8-10, suitable for young people with SEND including EHCPs; weekly reports to schools and parents. Places are commissioned by referring schools or the local authority - the council directory lists GBP90 per day - so there is no charge to families. The charity has a named Referrals & Safeguarding Manager listed on its own site and a designated/deputy safeguarding lead structure for this alternative provision programme. Sessions run from venues in Shifnal (main), Donnington and Shrewsbury.

Safeguarding policy in place.

View safeguarding policy

“"The programme has shown me how I can be in control. I am responsible and will achieve my goals." - Brightstar programme participant”

• Qualitative or participant feedback