Alternative Education Provision (AEP)
Supporting those at risk
At West Herts Amateur Boxing Club and Educational Support CIC, we are proud to be an innovative education provider dedicated to supporting children and young people at risk of disengagement from mainstream schooling. Our AEP works alongside schools and other agencies to help maintain young people in some form of education, offering vital opportunities to learn, grow, and develop.
We serve those who have been permanently excluded, no longer wish to attend school, are on the periphery of the youth justice system, or are unemployed—particularly young males, who often face the greatest challenges in engaging with society. We understand how, during these vulnerable times, many young people resort to anti-social behaviour, crime, or gang affiliation. Personal issues such as family bereavement, social isolation, and the impacts of COVID-19 have further widened the gap, making it harder for some young people to find their footing.
Our approach centers on harnessing the power of sport—specifically boxing—to instill vital leadership skills, discipline, and resilience. The courses we deliver are practical and experiential, focusing less on essays, exams and more on developing confidence, motivation, and leadership qualities through active participation.
Instill leadership skills, discipline, and resilience.
Young people learn to lead sessions, motivate others, and display skills like teamwork, perseverance, and self-control— values that boxing exemplifies and that can be transferred to many areas of life.
A proven track record of success
To date, over 150 children and young people have attained some form of qualification or developed key leadership qualities through our programs. Many have taken on roles as motivating pairs or group leaders, helping their peers attend sessions and work towards qualifications. The emphasis on group participation fosters a sense of responsibility, teamwork, and pride—empowering young people to support each other and succeed together.
Our courses are designed to be accessible and engaging, with an informal, gym-based environment featuring state-of-the-art equipment. The positive atmosphere, friendly coaches, and safe haven we provide contribute to attendance rates exceeding 90%. Young people enjoy the dynamic, supportive setting—feeling good about themselves, gaining confidence, and developing skills that extend beyond sport.
Our foundation and Level One courses aim to help young people attain qualifications, boost their resumes, and build lifelong skills—opening doors to future opportunities. While not everyone will go on to achieve formal qualifications, our focus is on giving each young person a chance—encouraging them to do just a little more than they thought possible and helping them unlock their potential.