This case study follows Sean Townsend’s engagement with Premier League Kicks, the Kicks Targeted mentoring programme and Reading Alternative Provision.
Background
When Sean began attending Premier League Kicks at the age of 15, he was struggling to engage with education.
He had become involved with the “wrong crowd” and was described as being on the verge of criminal behaviour.
Premier League Kicks and Targeted Support
In March 2023, Sean was referred to the Kicks Targeted mentoring programme.
The programme provided Sean with ongoing support to help him develop important life skills. He engaged positively with this support and regularly attended Premier League Kicks sessions.
Reading Alternative Provision
Sean progressed into Reading FC Community Trust’s Reading Alternative Provision programme.
During this period, he made significant improvements in:
- Social interaction
- Self-care
- Planning projects
Sean also made new friends and became better able to calm himself and withdraw from situations in which he might previously have reacted differently.
Reduced Vulnerability
The brochure reports that Sean is no longer vulnerable to exploitation within the community due to his positive engagement with the Trust’s programmes.
This support has benefited both Sean and his family.
Next Steps
Reading FC Community Trust plans to continue supporting Sean through post-16 education opportunities.
The Trust believes he can continue to thrive as he progresses into the next stage of his education.
Impact
Sean’s experience with the Community Trust included:
- Regular engagement with Premier League Kicks
- Targeted one-to-one mentoring
- Development of important life skills
- Progression into Reading Alternative Provision
- Improved social interaction and self-care
- Improved ability to manage difficult situations
- Reduced vulnerability to exploitation
- A route towards post-16 education
Conclusion
Sean has overcome challenging circumstances and made significant progress through his engagement with Reading FC Community Trust.
His journey shows the role that Premier League Kicks, targeted mentoring and alternative provision have played in supporting his development and continued engagement with education.