A powerful new education initiative has been launched in Stevenage to help teenagers at risk of exclusion get back on track, thanks to a partnership between Stevenage FC Foundation and train operator Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR).
The 12-week pilot programme, ‘Step Up’, is being rolled out at local secondary schools with a £30,000 grant from GTR, which runs Thameslink and Great Northern services. The aim is to give up to 120 students aged 14–15 the tools and support they need to re-engage with education and take positive steps toward their futures.
The pilot began at The Nobel School last week, where Stevenage FC Foundation’s Positive Pathways Manager, Lewis Sykes, delivered the first session to a small group of students. “It was brilliant!” he said. “I was blown away by how engaged the youngsters were.”
Wearing his Stevenage FC tracksuit, Lewis is using the power of sport to inspire. “Me working at the Lamex and wearing the club badge gives me a level of respect. These students want to listen – and that makes all the difference,” he added.
Each week, the sessions cover essential life skills such as financial literacy, personal development, goal setting, career preparation, and awareness of social issues like gangs and knife crime. Guest speakers from local councils, the police, and partner organisations are joining the programme to share their experiences and advice.
“Step Up is about taking initiative and stepping up for your community,” Lewis explained. “We’re not just trying to raise grades – we’re helping develop good people who are ready for life.”
A Lifeline for Students ‘On the Cusp’
Danny Camp, Director of Alternative Provision at The Nobel School, said the students involved are those at risk of disengagement or exclusion – often struggling with behaviour, low confidence or personal challenges. The Step Up sessions are held in ‘The Oak’, the school’s dedicated alternative provision unit.
“School should be a safety net,” said Danny. “We need to offer students positive experiences that help them make the right choices.”
Danny praised the impact of outside intervention: “There are so many distractions outside of school that it’s easy for teenagers to go off course. Step Up offers something different. The impact is already clear.”
Tracy Jarvis, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager for GTR, added:
“We’re thrilled to support this programme. What Lewis and the team at The Nobel School are doing is so important. Our children are our future – and they deserve every opportunity.”
Changing Lives: Malachi’s Story
One of the first students to take part is 14-year-old Malachi Boateng, described by staff as bubbly, fun, and football-mad. He was captivated by the first session.
“He’s wearing a Stevenage tracksuit and works with the players – it’s really cool,” Malachi said. “He’s taught us that if you’re talking, you’re not listening. I want to be a pro footballer, but it’s good to know there are other things if that doesn’t work out.”
Beyond the Classroom: Real-World Impact
The Step Up programme will run multiple times a year, helping 60–70 students annually. It forms part of a wider network of support initiatives at The Nobel School aimed at reducing exclusions and promoting long-term success for every student.
Danny Camp added:
“There’s a proven link between school exclusion and young people ending up in gangs or custody. We’re determined to break that cycle.”
He recounted the turnaround of one student whose school attendance was just 34% before joining The Oak. Now, his attendance is 95% — far above the national average for alternative provision.
“A parent recently told us, ‘I feel like I’ve got my son back.’ That’s what keeps me going,” Danny said.
Step Up Programme Overview
Programme Goals:
- Develop real-world skills and career awareness
- Encourage personal growth and resilience
- Create links between sport, education and community
- Provide early intervention to reduce exclusions
Weekly Sessions Include:
- Personal development and goal setting
- Money management skills with Barclays/Citizens Advice
- Job search and interview practice
- Career insights from rail and sport industries
- Social issue awareness with Herts Police
- Resilience and mental wellbeing sessions
- A community art project, with a final showcase at Stevenage Station
- A celebration event at Stevenage FC’s Lamex Stadium
For more information about Step Up or to get involved, contact Stevenage FC Foundation or visit their website.
