Turning Point Leeds (TPL) is an established Alternative Provision supporting young people across Leeds who are not attending mainstream education, are at risk of suspension or exclusion, are disengaged from school, or are facing challenges transitioning between primary and secondary phases. TPL can also support schools with the six days of supervision following a permanent exclusion.

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The setting prioritises relational and restorative practices, with a strong focus on meeting each young person’s individual needs through a tailored and personalised approach. The overarching aim is to be a genuine “turning point” in each pupil’s journey, supporting them to successfully reintegrate back into their home school.

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TPL was created to support young people who were slipping through the cracks of mainstream education. Recognising that many young people struggle within traditional systems, the team developed a provision that enables them to thrive through personalised support, restorative practice, and close collaboration with schools and families. The focus is on creating a positive, structured, and supportive environment where young people can re-engage with learning and rebuild confidence.

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Based at Kentmere Community Centre, TPL now has sole use of an expanded upstairs provision, including two main teaching rooms, four breakout spaces for 1:1 support, a food preparation area, and dedicated toilet facilities. In addition to on-site provision, young people access local sports centre facilities for physical education, supporting both physical wellbeing and engagement.

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Each day begins with a breakfast check-in, helping to build relationships and ensure young people are settled and ready to learn. Alongside academic work, young people engage in a range of enrichment activities including cooking, arts and crafts, and physical activity, all designed to build confidence, independence, and social skills. 

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Since opening, TPL has developed strong partnerships with numerous schools and academy trusts across Leeds and is now working at full capacity. Central to its success is the ability to build trusting relationships with young people, alongside providing a structured yet flexible environment that meets a wide range of needs.

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The provision adopts a non-blame, restorative approach to behaviour, encouraging reflection and repair through restorative conversations. Staff are emotionally available and trained to support young people with strategies to manage stress, behaviour, and emotional regulation. A designated calm space is available for young people who need time to reset and regulate.

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TPL operates with two Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) and aligns fully with non-school alternative provision standards, ensuring safeguarding, quality, and compliance remain at the heart of practice.

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A key measure of success for TPL is the number of young people who successfully reintegrate back into mainstream education. The provision has already supported numerous young people to rebuild confidence, re-engage with learning, and return to school with improved outcomes, which remains at the core of its purpose.

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Co-director, Ryan Bradshaw, offers this advice to others starting out:
“Don’t underestimate the power of relationships in education. Taking the time to understand each young person’s unique situation, building trust, and showing them that you believe in their potential can be transformative. Collaboration with families and other professionals is essential to ensure a consistent and supportive approach.”

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Co-director, Doug Mulholland, adds: “Consistency, trust and genuine care are at the heart of everything we do. When young people feel safe, understood and supported, they are far more likely to engage, reflect and make positive changes. Building strong relationships, while maintaining clear boundaries and high expectations, allows us to create an environment where young people can thrive and successfully transition back into education.”

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TPL continues to grow and evolve, responding to the needs of young people and schools across the city, and remains committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of young people.