Bath Rugby Foundation is proud to launch Engage, a new initiative aimed at supporting children and young people who are struggling to stay connected with school and learning. Designed for pupils who are anxious, withdrawn, or at risk of exclusion, Engage uses the power of sport and mentoring to build confidence, resilience, and emotional well-being. The programme offers a safe, structured space for students to develop life skills and rediscover their motivation to learn.

The pilot programme begins this June, with sessions running in Bath and Trowbridge. Small group sizes and a high staff-to-student ratio (1:3) ensure that every child receives personalised support, delivered by experienced, trauma-informed staff.

“Nationally and locally, we know that some children need a different approach to learning,” said Alex Randall, Community Manager at Bath Rugby Foundation. “Engage is about meeting them where they are—using sport, creativity, and connection to help them find their way back into the classroom with renewed confidence. I have worked at Bath Rugby Foundation for over four years, and I have such a strong belief in ours and other charities abilities to support children and young people to access a prosperous and positive life with the right intervention”.

Engage is open to pupils in Years 4 to 11 (Key Stages 2–4), with separate programmes for primary and secondary students. Sessions include weekly mentoring, SEMH (social, emotional, and mental health) support, creative team activities, and preparation for reintegration into mainstream education. “What sets us apart from other Alternative Provisions, is the focus on reintegration for our students back into school, with our coaches on site at their schools, we are able to promote and ensure a smooth transition back into mainstream education”.

Bath Rugby Foundation is inviting local schools to partner in shaping the programme by referring pupils for the new 2025-26 academic year.

To learn more or express interest at our community hubs in Trowbridge, Midsomer Norton and Bath, educators can contact Alex Randall at [email protected].