From barriers to breakthroughs.
At Upturn, we believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of the challenges they may have faced in education.
Our Alternative Provision has been created for young people aged 11–18 who may be struggling to engage in mainstream education due to behavioural, emotional, social, attendance or additional learning needs. We provide a safe, supportive and inspiring environment where young people can rebuild confidence, develop new skills and rediscover a positive relationship with learning.
Led by Adam Jenkins, an experienced practitioner with a strong background in Special Educational Needs and Alternative Provision, our offer combines high-quality education, personal development and vocational learning with a trauma-informed, relationship-based approach.
We recognise that no two learners are the same. That's why every placement is tailored to individual needs, strengths and aspirations.
Our programmes blend academic learning with practical, creative and vocational opportunities, helping young people engage through activities that inspire them whilst developing the knowledge and skills needed for future success.
All learning takes place within small groups, supported by experienced staff who understand the barriers that many young people face.
Upturn is a proud ASDAN member centre, delivering nationally recognised, accredited qualifications that give our learners real, portable proof of their progress.
We work closely with schools, local authorities, families and partner agencies to ensure every young person receives coordinated support.
Whether a placement is designed as a short-term intervention, respite provision, reintegration programme or longer-term alternative pathway, our focus remains the same: helping young people make meaningful progress and achieve positive outcomes.
As a social enterprise with over 20 years of supporting people, communities and organisations across Greater Manchester, Upturn brings a unique perspective to Alternative Provision. We understand that education is only one part of a young person's journey.
Our aim is not simply to improve engagement in learning, but to help young people develop confidence, aspirations, life skills and a sense of purpose that will support them long into adulthood.
We welcome referrals from schools, local authorities, academies, PRUs and other commissioning organisations.
If you would like to discuss a placement, arrange a visit or learn more about our Alternative Provision, our team would be pleased to speak with you.
At Upturn, we believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of the challenges they may have faced in education.
Our Alternative Provision has been created for young people aged 11–18 who may be struggling to engage in mainstream education due to behavioural, emotional, social, attendance or additional learning needs. We provide a safe, supportive and inspiring environment where young people can rebuild confidence, develop new skills and rediscover a positive relationship with learning.
Led by Adam Jenkins, an experienced practitioner with a strong background in Special Educational Needs and Alternative Provision, our offer combines high-quality education, personal development and vocational learning with a trauma-informed, relationship-based approach.
We recognise that no two learners are the same. That’s why every placement is tailored to individual needs, strengths and aspirations.
Our programmes blend academic learning with practical, creative and vocational opportunities, helping young people engage through activities that inspire them whilst developing the knowledge and skills needed for future success.
Learners can access:
All learning takes place within small groups, supported by experienced staff who understand the barriers that many young people face.
Everything we do is grounded in relational practice, nurture and consistency.
Our team understands the impact that adverse childhood experiences, anxiety, trauma and unmet needs can have on learning and behaviour. Rather than focusing on what’s gone wrong, we focus on helping young people move forward.
Through trusted relationships, clear expectations and personalised support, we help learners build confidence, improve attendance, strengthen emotional wellbeing and develop the resilience needed to thrive.
We work closely with schools, local authorities, families and partner agencies to ensure every young person receives coordinated support.
Whether a placement is designed as a short-term intervention, respite provision, reintegration programme or longer-term alternative pathway, our focus remains the same: helping young people make meaningful progress and achieve positive outcomes.
Recent quality assurance feedback from local authority partners recognised the strength of Upturn’s vision for Alternative Provision and confirmed our inclusion on Oldham’s approved “Working With” list for 2026/27.
As a social enterprise with over 20 years of supporting people, communities and organisations across Greater Manchester, Upturn brings a unique perspective to Alternative Provision. We understand that education is only one part of a young person’s journey.
Our aim is not simply to improve engagement in learning, but to help young people develop confidence, aspirations, life skills and a sense of purpose that will support them long into adulthood.
We welcome referrals from schools, local authorities, academies, PRUs and other commissioning organisations.
If you would like to discuss a placement, arrange a visit or learn more about our Alternative Provision, our team would be pleased to speak with you.
Contact:
Adam Jenkins
Head of Alternative Provision
Phone: 0161 652 9000
Mobile: 07795 577647
Email: adam.jenkins@upturn.org.uk