Rekindle creates fierce, critical thinkers – young people who challenge inherited truths and learn with joy and creativity.
Through our youth-led Supplementary School for 11-14 year-olds and wider community work – from Sunday Socials and a Pantry to the Rekindling Nello James project – we foster collective care and intergenerational connection. Rekindle is more than a school, it is a village where young people can truly flourish.
Rekindle currently runs two provisions, in Hulme, Manchester, and Tulse Hill, London, offering weekly sessions for 11–14 year olds focused on critical thinking, creativity and cultural education. These programmes help young people see themselves as agents of change in their communities.
Each school also works with Youth Pioneers aged 16–24 who co-design the curriculum alongside staff. Their lived experience ensures our learning spaces are relevant, bold, and inclusive – centred on big questions and deep thinking.
With support from The Robertson Trust, we’re exploring a new provision in Lochee, Dundee. This includes engagement with local partners, young people and the wider community to ensure the model reflects local needs.
Our approach is being independently evaluated to evidence its impact and support our wider aim: influencing UK education policy by showing what’s possible within (and beyond) the current system.
While Rekindle delivers direct education provision, the Rekindle Foundation focuses on systemic change and sector engagement.
The Rekindle Foundation was created in response to a system that too often fails young people, especially those from Black, Asian, and working-class communities. It stifles creativity, overlooks wellbeing, and leaves many behind. Our mission is to prioritise wellbeing and belonging over performance pressure.
We work collaboratively with educators, families, and young people to reimagine learning. In June 2025, we hosted our first Reimagining Education event, bringing together voices from across the sector to shape what comes next.
The Foundation isn’t just about reform. It’s about belief in young people, in teachers, and in the power of education done differently.
We believe young people thrive in strong, connected communities – so we invest in creating them. From The Pantry, which supports families with dignity, to Sunday Socials where elders share stories and connection, we’re building a true community hub in Manchester and beyond.
Meanwhile, the Rekindling Nello James project, funded by the National Lottery, explores the legacy of political activist, writer and author, CLR “Nello” James using his story to inspire dialogue about justice, resistance and community care.
Together, these projects reflect Rekindle’s belief that learning happens everywhere – and that strong communities are essential to building a better future for all.
In London, we’re part of the Oasis @ St Martin’s Village, a vibrant, inclusive group of partner organisations working collaboratively to transform the life opportunities of young people in the Lambeth area.
By making a donation to Rekindle, you’ll be supporting the young people who attend the supplementary school.
