Chiefs Engage 16+ Alternative Provision

The Chiefs Engage 16+ Alternative Provision at Topsham RFC

The Chiefs Engage 16 + is our education programme working with 16-25 year olds carrying an EHCP (Educational Health Care Plan) across Devon.

Over 20 hours a week the programme uses rugby’s core values of teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship to get young people not in education, into education, training, apprenticeships and/or employment, using physical activity as the vehicle of their success.

Our core offer within our Learning Academy, offers a relaxed environment to also improve their functional maths and English, develop valuable life/soft skills and gain important qualifications alongside work experience, employer-led sessions, guest speakers and bolt on qualifications.

The programme also offers essential enrichment and physical activities that supports the development of the whole individual through not only improving their mental but physical wellbeing as well exposing all students to the wider world and giving opportunities to practice soft skills.

Participants in programme regularly report an increase in resilience, self-confidence and aspiration as a result of their involvement, and over 70% go on to achieve a positive progression into further education, training or employment.

The Chiefs Engage 16+ programme is supported nationally by CVC capital Partners, locally by the Exeter Chiefs Foundation and Devon Wooden Spoon charity partnering with Exeter College. The programme runs from Topsham RFC, in Topsham, Exeter. Which offers fantastic facilities including four acres of ground and is an easily accessible location.

Benefits of the programme:

Targeted support:

Many of the young adults we support have mental health issues, academic struggles, behavioural problems, or traumas that have affected their education. Each student fills works through progression passports and our staff work closely with all the professional agencies that surround the learner and their other supportive network, allowing us to help them overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.

Engagement through activities:

Physical, social and emotional development opportunities allow young people to heal, grow, have fun and create memorable experiences, helping them to see the positives in everyday life. Trips surfing, raft building, Cornwall's Adrenaline Quarry, bowling, careers fairs, Winners Gym and many other phenomenal opportunities to evolve the above.

Qualifications:

BTECH Level 1 Sport - An entry level study programme covering such topics as healthy eating, working on projects, creating events, benefits of exercise, how to train and the biology and physiology of the body is composed of.

Functional Skills - up to Level 2 in English and Maths.

Possible bolt on Qualifications - Leadership, First Aid, CSCS cards, Health & Hygiene Certificates.

Positive impact:

Engaging with them in a range of activities, we can see enhancements in their confidence, self-esteem, and communication skills, providing them with essential tools to break down barriers and face life's challenges.

Holistic wellbeing:

Mindfulness and creative sessions promote overall wellbeing to enhance mental and emotional health, teach new skills and coping strategies. Young people also can work with referral agencies for counselling and other support networks.

High staff-to-pupil ratio:

A high staff-to-pupil ratio ensures that each young person's individual needs are met. This approach creates a safe and supportive environment, allowing the participants to reach their highest levels of personal achievement and take pride in themselves by having trusting adult relationship and mentorships lasting for a key part of their teenage lives.

Engage On Track - Exeter Chiefs

The Engage on Track programme offers local secondary schools in Devon a 6 week programme which focuses on core themes that affect young people in our communities. The project targets 14-16 year olds who are at risk of becoming NEET (Not in employment, education or Training) and covers bespoke topics such as: