For many young people, the transition from school to work or further education can be daunting and fraught with challenges. This is particularly true for those facing difficulties in mainstream educational environments. At EdStart, a group of specialist schools in the North West of England, every student is given the opportunity to leave school with a job or further education secured, defying the odds for those at risk of becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training).
Helen Tynan recalls her son Ben‘s struggles in traditional schooling. Diagnosed with ADHD, Ben faced significant barriers to his education, which included disengagement and multiple suspensions. By September 2025, the UK had recorded 946,000 young people classified as NEET, representing over 12.7 percent of all individuals aged 16 to 24, highlighting a growing crisis in youth education and employment.
When Ben turned 13, he transitioned to specialist alternative provision (AP) after being removed from mainstream schooling. Data from the Children’s Commissioner reveals alarming statistics: almost 30 percent of students leaving AP in 2022-23 failed to secure a post-16 destination for six months, a rate nearly five times higher than that of mainstream students. Fortunately, Ben found a supportive environment at EdStart, which has achieved a remarkable record of zero NEETs among its graduates.
Initially, Ben struggled to engage. “When he first started, he wore his hood up and wouldn’t talk to anyone,” his mother said. With dedicated support from the staff, Ben learned to manage his anxiety and became increasingly active in his education. “He became engaged and started learning,” Tynan noted. Today, at 18 years old, Ben is pursuing a professional chef foundation degree at University College Birmingham, a goal he once thought unattainable.
His journey, however, was not without obstacles. Despite assistance, he faced difficulties with exams and had to resit critical subjects like English and Maths. It wasn’t until he explored catering at college that he discovered his passion and talent for cooking. Ben now aspires to open his own restaurant and has recently completed a significant assignment at university, showcasing the progress he has made in overcoming his previous challenges.
Kevin Buchanan, the education director at EdStart, emphasizes that Ben’s success is not an isolated incident. “EdStart students are equipped with life skills that go beyond education,” he explained. These skills include CV writing, teamwork, and navigating the digital landscape. Buchanan believes that the current education system is failing to meet the evolving needs of young people, often rooted in traditional academic pathways that do not consider the realities of today’s society.
Since its inception in 2011, EdStart has seen an increase in referrals, often linked to the social and mental health challenges faced by students. The transition from primary to secondary school can be overwhelming, and many young people feel lost in larger, less supportive environments. At EdStart’s Salford campus, where 45 students currently attend, the atmosphere is designed to be nurturing, featuring bright colours, arts and crafts rooms, and spaces for physical activity.
Students at EdStart are typically aged 14 to 16 and are preparing for their GCSEs, often with significant support. “Many of these students walk out with high grades, despite initial doubts about their abilities,” Buchanan remarked. The smaller class sizes allow for personalized attention, enabling students to achieve academic success while also building confidence.
EdStart’s approach focuses on transforming perceived negatives into positives. Research from the Impetus charity indicates that young people with fewer than five GCSEs by age 18 are more likely to become NEET. A report commissioned by the government highlighted the long-term financial implications for young individuals who drop out of work early, potentially losing over £1 million in lifetime earnings.
To combat this trend, the UK government has recently announced a job guarantee scheme for young people out of work, offering positions with major companies. This initiative aims to address the growing number of NEETs and provides an avenue for young people to gain valuable work experience.
At EdStart, students are not only prepared academically but are also guided towards alternative routes that celebrate their achievements, regardless of traditional academic benchmarks. For instance, students are encouraged to view qualifications in subjects like Religious Studies as valuable assets highlighting their understanding of diverse cultures and respect for others.
Current student Olivia Bailey, aged 15, shares her aspirations of entering the beauty sector. “Mainstream school was never good for me,” she said, noting the lack of help in choosing courses and achieving good grades. With the support of EdStart’s careers adviser, Olivia has successfully navigated college applications, feeling more confident in her academic journey.
Another student, Shay Fisher, aims to coach young boys in football. Since joining EdStart, he has seen a significant improvement in his behaviour and engagement with learning. “The teachers here are different. They talk to you like people,” he noted, contrasting his experiences in mainstream education.
Buchanan strives to instil a sense of enjoyment in learning, encouraging students to pursue various interests rather than fixating solely on high-paying careers. This holistic approach helps students understand the importance of skills and relationships in the workplace.
As the school day at EdStart wraps up, students are often rewarded for their hard work with activities that cater to their interests, from arts to physical fitness. This positive reinforcement contributes to an engaging educational experience that prioritizes both learning and personal development.
In addition to academic support, EdStart also aids students during their transition to further education or employment, maintaining contact with families to ensure a smooth adjustment. Monthly workshops help parents understand the educational landscape and provide resources for supporting their children’s academic development.
Through these initiatives, EdStart aims to reshape perceptions about education for both students and parents alike, fostering a collaborative environment that recognizes the diverse paths to success. As Helen Tynan reflects on her son’s journey from struggle to achievement, she has joined EdStart as a teacher, bringing her experience and understanding to help other families navigate similar challenges. “As long as you get there in the end, like Ben got there in the end,” she concluded.
