Bristol alternative learning provider Urban Pursuit receives £55k boost

Urban Pursuit has secured an investment of £55,000 through local impact investors BBRC (Bristol & Bath Regional Capital) to support its work with young people struggling with their education.

The funding will enable the community interest company to take on a new operating base in Bristol’s Cumberland Basin and meet growing demand from Bristol schools.

It’s also set to support the development of two new accredited vocational training courses, which will equip pupils with qualifications like being able to cook and repair bikes.

Urban Pursuit delivers an ‘adventure curriculum’ involving mentoring, outdoor activities and adventure sports for young people who are having difficulties with or excluded from mainstream schools. This is paid for by the schools.

The curriculum consists of a package of personal and social development activities to engage the young people and allow them to reintegrate into the education system.

It also helps them to develop a variety of additional life skills.

Jari Moate, investment director at BBRC, said: “We’re thrilled to support Urban Pursuit with its mission to empower and uplift young people facing challenges in mainstream education.

“The team at Urban Pursuit has already seen great success and this investment from City Funds reflects a commitment to fostering further positive impact within our local communities by addressing challenges faced by schools across Bristol.

“The investment will not only provide a new operating base, but also help to deliver two new training programmes giving pupils that take part accredited qualifications which in turn helps to support them with their personal development.”

Urban Pursuit was set up in 2011 by Neil and Emma Dennison, whose careers in youth work gave them a strong understanding of the issues faced by young people.

It supports around 70 students per week.

Neil added: “Through our social intervention programmes, we reduce school exclusions, increase attendance, and improve young peoples’ wellbeing.

“It’s fantastic to have secured this investment from BBRC – it means we can get straight on with our growth plans and take our support network to the next level.

“Not only do we have two new vocational courses, but a new base of operations right in Bristol, which will enable us to help even more kids get the support they need to get the best from themselves and thrive.”