Leeds REACH
Leeds REACH, Chapeltown Road, Leeds, is a cutting edge
voluntary organisation delivering services to young people whom for
differing reasons may be facing difficulties in mainstream school.
The project was originated in 1994 and was endorsed by the local
community, young people, families and the schools of which it serves.
The project is a registered charity with annual open access AGMs and
regular open/information forums for local community participation.
Young
people between the ages of 11 & 16+ (predominately but not
exclusively Year 9 & from an African Caribbean heritage) are
engaged in a programme of change which allows them to amend past
behaviours, achieve, enjoy and return to school to complete their
studies.Most of our curriculum on offer is accredited via OCN (Open College Network) - STEP UP (Step Towards Enabling Progression) which enables students to gain points towards a GCSE qualification or act as a stand alone qualification. All accreditation gained at the service is transferred to the school where the young person attends.
The project works in partnership with the local education authority, Leeds City Council Youth Service and several secondary schools based within the inner North East/North West area of the city.
Our year follows the school calendar, with pupils enrolling each term and being phased back into their host school within 10-12 weeks. Through our partnership with Barnardo’s Yorkshire, when a young person reaches the age of 16 we’ll seek further education, training and employment opportunities by referring them onto the Barnardo’s ‘Believe Leeds’ project.
At a time where concerns regarding the lack of positive black
models, under-achievement and exclusions amongst young black boys are
being highlighted, Leeds Reach prides itself on the experience,
knowledge, and positive black role models that work within the
organisation.
Our commitment to support the attainment levels and emotional well
being of young people within our care is paramount and our efforts to
reduce school age exclusions, promote school attendance and unearth
hidden talent is something that we believe will have a lasting effect
on all that are involved within the service.
