A new organisation dedicated to supporting young people who are struggling in mainstream education has launched in Bridgwater, offering a lifeline for those at risk of falling through the cracks.
Renew Education, founded by local teacher and entrepreneur Ben Kirk, aims to give students another chance through personalised support, life skills development, and trauma-informed care. Based in King Square, the new centre is already working with schools to provide an alternative to exclusion, helping young people stay engaged in learning and build brighter futures.
“As suspensions and exclusions continue to rise, so do concerns around crime and mental health, while life chances for young people diminish,” Ben said. “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.”
Renew Education offers schools a tailored service, focused on more than just academics. Its programmes include:
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Support for processing past trauma
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Development of life skills, including employer partnerships
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Personalised academic support
Ben, who also runs the successful local business Inspired Schools, has years of experience working across Somerset’s schools. He says he was inspired to set up Renew Education after witnessing how many young people with great potential feel left behind.
“Every week I meet young people full of promise, but who feel education has written them off,” he said. “They don’t need punishment—they need understanding, opportunity, and tailored support. That’s why I created Renew Education.”
Ben has brought together a dedicated team committed to helping students rebuild confidence and discover their strengths. For him, the mission is deeply personal.
“Just because a student struggles in mainstream education doesn’t mean they are a failure,” he added. “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.”
Renew Education is calling on schools, parents, and local businesses to play a role in its mission:
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Schools can commission places directly and are encouraged to get in touch to discuss support for their students.
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Parents who believe their child could benefit are advised to speak with their school.
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Local businesses are invited to partner with Renew Education to provide safe, meaningful work experience opportunities.
“This is about more than education—it’s about community,” Ben said. “Together, we can give every young person in Bridgwater the chance to succeed.”
