The Engage programme at Northampton Saints Foundation is making a profound impact on young people aged seven to 16, providing those that are school refusers, struggling with behaviour or mental health, with inspiration, support and education. As the number of school exclusions continues to soar nationally, the demand for the Engage programme has reached unprecedented levels. In September 2024, the programme delivered 450 sessions, supporting over 100 young people, the highest ever demand this early in the academic year.
The Department for Education reported in July 2024 that school suspensions hit almost 790,000 in 2022/23 – which equates to nearly one suspension for every ten pupils. Engage is working tirelessly to help address this crisis. Collaborating with a range of professionals, including schools, local councils, Children’s Services, CAMHS and the police, the Engage team aims to reduce these staggering figures through positive, targeted interventions.
Given that disruptive behaviour accounts for 48% of suspensions and 39% of exclusions, according to the Department for Education statistics for England in July 2024, Engage focuses on instilling the core values of rugby – teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship. This approach helps young people transform their behaviour and develop the social and emotional skills needed to thrive both in school and society. Through this, Engage opens up pathways for a return to education, fostering better life chances for the young people they support.
Meeting growing demand with tailored support
Engage has become a critical resource for schools struggling to manage the complexities of their students. The programme tailors a bespoke support package for each young person, coordinating with schools and other agencies to facilitate successful reintegration into education. Engage’s small group settings, high staff ratios, and on-site Youth Counsellor creates a supportive environment where young people can focus on improving their mental health, wellbeing, and future prospects.
Emilie Harbottle, Northampton Saints Foundation’s Inclusion Lead, said:
“Schools are hitting crisis point due to the huge complexities of the young people on roll. Engage has become a lifeline for students who might otherwise be lost in the system.”
As the demand for the Engage programme continues to grow, so does the need for funding. It costs over £633,000 each year to run the programme, covering expenses such as staff, activities, transportation, and the provision of healthy lunches for every young person. To continue delivering these essential services and reach as many young people as possible, the Foundation relies heavily on contributions and donations from the local community.
Donations, through corporate partnerships or individual contributions, directly enable the programme to sustain its high level of service and reach even more young people.
In response to the growing demand, the Engage programme is set to expand, with a new hub opening in Kettering. This expansion aims to give more young people the chance to participate on the Engage programme, changing the direction of their futures. The Foundation expects to support around 300 young people throughout 2024/25, a testament to the programme’s impact and the urgent need for its services.
As schools face unprecedented challenges, Engage offers a lifeline for young people at risk of being left behind. By fostering resilience, improving behaviour, and providing vital emotional support, Engage is transforming lives, one session at a time. However, with its growing reach comes an increased need for community backing.
Every contribution ensures that Engage can continue offering young people the opportunity to thrive both in school and beyond.
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