At 14, Theo was already struggling to stay connected to education.

Theo has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and is diagnosed with ADHD and delayed sensory processing. He found communication difficult and lacked confidence in social settings. School environments often felt overwhelming, and when they did, Theo withdrew - emotionally and physically.

Over time, this led to increasing isolation.

Theo struggled with time management and punctuality, which made arriving at lessons on time a daily challenge. His confidence dropped, his mental health suffered, and patterns of school avoidance began to form. When things felt too much, Theo retreated to his bedroom, spending long periods alone at home.

What was missing wasn’t intelligence or ability - it was the right support.

Theo needed a mentoring-based intervention that could offer consistency, emotional safety and practical strategies to help him manage daily routines, regulate his emotions and rebuild confidence in himself and in education.

That’s when Theo joined Bath Rugby Foundation’s Engage pathway.

From the outset, Engage offered something different. Smaller groups. Consistent staff. Time to build trust. Space to talk - without pressure or judgement.

Since joining, Theo’s social confidence has grown noticeably. Where he once struggled to speak, he now initiates conversations with staff and engages openly in sessions. He has practised social skills in real-world settings - meeting peers at the Alternative Learning Hub, navigating around Bath, visiting cafés and shops, and interacting with people he wouldn’t usually.

One standout moment was a visit to Bath Rugby’s stadium, The Rec. For Theo - who aspires to be involved in rugby - this wasn’t just a trip. It was a glimpse of a future he could imagine himself being part of.

Sport has played a crucial role in Theo’s progress. Through games and physical activity, he has learned how to communicate, take appropriate risks, make decisions and cope with challenge. These sessions have boosted his confidence and motivation - particularly because they connect with his passion for rugby.

“I want to work towards joining a rugby club, and participating in sport at Engage is helping me with that.”

In the classroom, Theo engages well in workshops and tuition, with clear improvements in focus and participation. He has also developed practical routines that are transforming his daily life.

“One of my goals is being on time. Most of the time I have been, and it is getting better. I’m way earlier to school now. I used to always be late and never bothered to get up - but now I’m more open to coming to school and Bath Rugby Foundation, thanks to their coaches encouraging me.”

Theo has begun preparing for the next day the night before, putting his phone away earlier, and completing homework consistently - changes that have been noticed and welcomed by his school.

“The 1-1 support and journalling with the Foundation have really helped me keep track of my goals and know what steps I need to take.”

The journey hasn’t been without challenges.

Recently, Theo’s attendance has dipped, and he has shown signs of dysregulation, particularly when feeling angry or overwhelmed. At times, he struggles to express his emotions verbally. Rather than stepping away, Bath Rugby Foundation has adapted its support.

Theo is now working with Project 28, receiving guidance around recreational drug use, supported by Foundation-led workshops on healthy habits, peer pressure and wellbeing. This joined-up approach ensures Theo is supported holistically - not punished for struggling.

Honor also highlights Theo’s progress in handling tasks that once triggered frustration, and his engagement in careers and future skills work - including vision boards and a five-year plan - helping him understand the importance of education and long-term goals.

This progress is significant.

Before Engage, Theo was close to exclusion due to disengagement and low emotional resilience. Without this intervention, the risks were clear: permanent exclusion, escalating substance use, and further withdrawal from education.

Instead, Theo is still engaged. Still learning. Still hopeful.

“The coaches are funny, supportive - less strict than teachers. I like how the lessons are run and how they talk to me.”

Theo remains with Bath Rugby Foundation until at least April 2026, with the potential to continue through to July 2027. His journey is ongoing - but the direction has changed.

This is the impact of Bath Rugby Foundation.

Your support makes this possible.
It funds the time, trust and specialist care needed to keep young people like Theo engaged in education — before exclusion becomes the only outcome.