Bristol alternative learning provider Urban Pursuit has secured £55,000 from a city-based impact fund to support its work with local young people who are struggling with their education.
The investment from BBRC (Bristol & Bath Regional Capital) will enable the community interest company to open a new operating base and meet a growing demand from Bristol schools. 
It will also support the development of two new accredited vocational training courses which will equip pupils with qualifications such as being able to cook and repair bikes.
Urban Pursuit delivers an ‘adventure curriculum’ involving mentoring, outdoor activities and adventure sports, pictured, for young people having difficulties with, or excluded from, mainstream schools, which 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 develop a variety of additional life skills.
Urban Pursuit was set up in 2011 by Neil and Emma Dennison, whose careers in youth work had given them a strong understanding of the issues faced by young people. It now supports around 70 students a week. 
Its new base near Cumberland Basin will allow it to expand to meet growing demand from Bristol schools as well as developing two new product lines of accredited vocational training – bicycle maintenance and cooking.
Jari Moate, pictured, investment director at BBRC – which has made the investment from its City Funds impact investment fund – said: “We are thrilled to support Urban Pursuit with its mission to empower and uplift young people facing challenges in mainstream education.
“Its team have already seen great success and this investment reflects a commitment to fostering further positive impact within our communities by addressing challenges faced by schools across Bristol.”
Urban Pursuit founding chief executive Neil Dennison added: “Through our social intervention programmes, we reduce school exclusions, increase attendance, and improve young peoples’ wellbeing.
“It is 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, which will enable us to help even more kids get the support they need to get the best from themselves and thrive.”
BBRC is the West of England’s first home-grown, place-based impact investor and is focused on unlocking funding and support for purposeful businesses, charities, housing and social enterprises.
City Funds is a collaboration between BBRC, Quartet Community Foundation and Bristol City Council.
Top photograph courtesy of Urban Pursuit
