A new community-focused organisation, Renew Education, has launched in the heart of Bridgwater to support young people who are unable to access mainstream education – giving them another chance.
Founded by local teacher and entrepreneur Ben Kirk, Renew Education works alongside schools to provide tailored support for students who may be struggling in traditional classrooms but remain entitled to a high-quality education.
“As suspensions and exclusions continue to rise, so do concerns around crime and mental health, while life chances for young people diminish,” Ben explains. “The need for flexible and compassionate education solutions has never been greater. We believe we can support schools by giving their students an alternative provision that helps them succeed.”
Ben, who also runs the successful local business Inspired Schools, has spent years working across Somerset’s schools. He has seen first-hand how many children with huge potential are struggling to thrive.
“Every week I meet young people full of promise, but who feel education has written them off,” he says. “They don’t need punishment—they need understanding, opportunity, and tailored support. That’s why I created Renew Education.”
What Renew Education Offers
Based at King Square, Bridgwater, Renew Education provides an Alternative Provision (AP) service commissioned directly by schools, offering:
- Support for processing past trauma
- Development of life skills, including employer partnerships
- Personalised academic support
Ben has assembled a passionate team dedicated to helping young people rebuild confidence and discover their strengths.
“Just because a student struggles in mainstream education doesn’t mean they are a failure,” Ben adds. “As a father, I can’t imagine my daughters feeling written off before they’ve even had a chance. Our vision is simple: no young person in Bridgwater should feel like education has given up on them.”
Get Involved
- Schools: Renew Education is already taking bookings—contact us to explore how we can support your students.
- Parents: Speak with your child’s school if you feel they may benefit from an alternative approach.
- Local Businesses: Partner with us to provide safe, meaningful work experience opportunities for young people.
This initiative is about more than education—it’s about community. Together, we can give every young person in Bridgwater the chance to succeed.
