The Blackpool Skills Academy, established in 2022, is paving the way for children aged 11 to 16 who have faced behavioral challenges in traditional educational settings. Founders David Hodge and Andy Iredale have created a nurturing environment where students who have been expelled as many as ten times from other schools can now thrive. The academy's innovative approach to education, which diverges from conventional methods, has allowed students to succeed where they previously struggled.
The success stories emerging from the academy are profound. One such story is that of Sienna, a 15-year-old girl who had been expelled from mainstream school. Now, at the Blackpool Skills Academy, she is pursuing her dream of becoming a plumber. Sienna stands out as the only female construction student at the academy, challenging gender norms in an industry where only 15% of the workforce is female. She asserts that construction is "not just for boys," highlighting the opportunities for women in a sector that currently overlooks half of the population.
"At present only 15% of the construction workforce are female so it is an industry that is missing out on 50% of the population." – Andy Iredale
The academy offers a diverse range of courses in bricklaying, joinery, plastering, and plumbing, providing students like Sienna the chance to explore various skills. This hands-on experience is crucial, especially as the national target aims to construct 1.5 million homes within the current parliamentary term. The academy's commitment to this goal is evident in its curriculum and the dedication of its students.
"We have seen the national target, 1.5m homes need building over the life of this parliament." – Andy Iredale
The transformative impact of the academy is not lost on its students. Sienna reflects on her experience with gratitude and amazement, acknowledging how it has changed her life dramatically.
"I didn't expect this, I thought I was going to end up staying in behaviour school but I am very lucky I got a place in here and I am glad I came, it has changed me a lot," – Sienna
The dedication and passion among students are evident, as noted by co-founder Andy Iredale.
"We've got students that turn up here on days that they shouldn't be here, they'll still come in, and that tells me everything because they want to be here." – Andy Iredale
