Our Offer
At Strive Academy, we provide a dynamic and practical curriculum tailored to the interests and strengths of each learner. Our offer is designed to help young people develop the skills, confidence, and experience they need to progress into further education, employment, or training.
We deliver a range of vocational and academic pathways led by qualified staff with real industry experience, all in purpose-built environments that reflect professional settings. Every course is designed to be engaging, relevant, and focused on the future.
Areas of Study
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Construction
Hands-on training in essential trades, including brickwork, joinery, and multi-skills—ideal for learners ready to build a career from the ground up.
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Barbering
A sharp and creative programme that blends practical training with customer service skills, helping learners master this in-demand trade.
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Hair & Beauty
Learners gain experience in salon-based skills, from styling and treatments to product knowledge and hygiene, all delivered in a real-world setting.
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Lifestyle, Sport & Fitness
For learners passionate about health, sport, and wellbeing. This pathway supports physical development while exploring careers in the fitness industry.
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Occupational Studies
A flexible course offering practical skills across a range of industries, tailored to help learners explore interests and find their ideal career path.
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Music & Media
Creative learners thrive in our music and media offer, where they can explore everything from production and sound engineering to content creation and performance.
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Functional Skills
Essential English and Maths delivered in a contextualised, accessible way—equipping learners with the foundational skills for everyday life and employment.
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Rekindle (1:1 Support Package)
A personalised, therapeutic offer for young people who need more intensive support. Rekindle helps learners rebuild confidence, re-engage with education, and move forward at their own pace.
Every part of our offer is built around the individual needs of the learner—ensuring that wherever they start, they have the tools, support, and space to succeed on their own terms.
Vocational
At Strive Academy, our vocational programmes act as a stepping stone between education and the workplace. We create pathways that combine both academic study and practical, hands-on experience, ensuring our learners are fully prepared for their next steps.
Through carefully designed programmes, learners gain valuable “on the job” experience alongside working towards nationally recognised qualifications. This blend of real-world practice and formal learning equips them with the skills, confidence, and accreditation needed to thrive in their chosen career path.
We deliver our vocational programmes in small, supportive nurture groups, giving each learner the time and individual attention they need to succeed. With a focus on building trust, resilience, and self-belief, our approach ensures that no learner is left behind.
Our outcomes speak for themselves—over the past three years, more than 85% of learners have successfully achieved their qualifications, opening doors to further education, apprenticeships, and employment opportunities.
Qualifications Progression
At Strive Academy, learners can start at the right level for them and progress step by step. Each stage can be achieved as an Award, Certificate, or Diploma, giving flexibility and recognition at every milestone.
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Entry Level
Award / Certificate / Diploma
Designed to build confidence and introduce core skills.
A starting point for learners who may have been out of education or need extra support.
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Level 1
Award / Certificate / Diploma
Focuses on developing practical and vocational skills.
Prepares learners for more advanced study or initial steps into the workplace.
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Level 2
Award / Certificate / Diploma
Equivalent to GCSE level.
Provides strong vocational grounding and recognised qualifications for employment or apprenticeships.
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Functional Skills (Maths & English)
Available alongside all levels.
Builds the essential literacy and numeracy skills needed for everyday life, further study, and work.
The awarding bodies we are registered with are:
VTCT (barbering, hair and beauty)
Ascentis (construction)
Success StoriesFrom Shut-In to Site-Ready:
A Journey of Growth and Independence
One of our most inspiring journeys is that of a young person who, when we first met him, was completely disengaged from education. Struggling with extreme anxiety and low motivation, he wouldn’t leave the house, let alone consider attending a learning centre.
Through a series of patient and consistent home visits, both alongside his school and independently, our team at Strive Academy gradually built a trusting, professional relationship. At first, progress was slow, but each small step forward laid the foundation for something greater.
As time went on, this learner began to actively engage in his learning at home. We worked at his pace, celebrating every bit of progress, until he felt ready to take the next step: working in a shared space within the community. It was here that he first expressed an interest in construction and with that, his future began to take shape.
Supported by our team, he eventually transitioned into our Tameside centre, where he:
In Year 11, progressed to achieve his Level 1 Diploma
Post-16, returned to Strive to gain his Level 2 Certificate
Also achieved Functional Skills Level 2 in both Maths and English
Received tailored support to successfully pass his CSCS card, allowing him to work legally and safely on construction sites
Thanks to his hard work and determination, he has now entered full-time employment in construction, earning his own income and building a future with real independence. He has also passed his driving test, giving him even more freedom and opportunity.
Most recently, we were thrilled to offer him an apprenticeship opportunity with Strive Academy, a testament to his growth and the value he brings. From a learner who couldn’t step outside his door to a young man now shaping his own career path, his journey represents everything Strive stands for.
We are incredibly proud of him.
Find Out More
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Our Vision & Values
At Strive Academy, our vision is to create a learning community where young people are empowered to succeed, not only in the classroom, but in life.
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Meet the Team
We pride ourselves on small group teaching and a highly engaging environment, where relationships matter and progress is personal. Our team is passionate about helping each learner find their path and reach their potential.
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Our Offer
At Strive Academy, we provide a dynamic and practical curriculum tailored to the interests and strengths of each learner. Our offer is designed to help young people develop the skills, confidence, and experience they need to progress into further education, employment, or training.