Alternative School
Ryan
Our Alternative School provides young people who are at risk of exclusion from mainstream education or who may find school a challenge, an alternative place to learn, grow and develop. Students attend the Alternative School three or four times per week. Their development journey includes 1:1 support on subjects including Maths and English in addition to physical activity sessions. There is a focus on self-reflection, personal development and fostering a growth mindset.
We asked Ryan, a current student about his experiences as a student in the Alternative School:
"It’s different from school and it's more chilled. The 1:1 support is much better and we get more work done because there are less distractions. The teachers and youth workers are sound and actually have a laugh with you. I wasn't allowed to do art in school but I tried it at Spartans, it's quite boring but it’s a good laugh and the teacher is sound. I have realised at Spartans that I have very good determination, not just for football but for trying new things too. For example, the zip wire at fox lake. And, although it’s not my favourite topic I did learn that I could cook. Fox Lake was my favourite trip with Spartans and that’s when I realised how determined I can be at learning new skills. When I leave school, I would like to do football coaching as that’s what I enjoy."
Spring 2023 update - Ryan is currently volunteering with our Football Development Department delivering community coaching programmes!
"Ryan's enthusiasm and determination were really brought to light this year at Spartans - it's been a real pleasure to see him try so hard and to push himself to keep going."
