Inspire 2 Ignite Creates Life-Changing Impact with The Bradfield Centre
Shining a Spotlight on Inspire 2 Ignite’s Transformative Work
At The Bradfield Centre, we pride ourselves on being a hub of innovation and opportunity. Over the past year, we’ve been fortunate to witness the incredible impact Inspire 2 Ignite has had on young people through their programmes. By leveraging our spaces and connections, they have transformed lives and empowered the next generation to achieve remarkable success.
Inspire 2 Ignite is a community interest company with a purpose to empower young people through a structured ecosystem that provides experiences, skills, and networks to drive economic and community contributions. Their vision is a world where every young person can access the support, opportunities, and pathways needed to achieve their aspirations and thrive in an evolving economy.
Championing Alternative Education
Inspire 2 Ignite’s alternative education programme equips young people who learn outside of mainstream schooling with industry and entrepreneurial experiences to learn news skills, increase confidence and create pathways into further education or employment. After the first year of the programme hosted at the Bradfield Centre, every young person achieved the academic grades needed to progress to their first-choice post-secondary pathways. This impact is unheard of as the Deputy CEO of the Eastern Learning Alliance, he shared the 80% young people that attend their alternative provisions find themselves not in education, employment, or training in 3 months into the next academic year.
Mark Kirby, Head Teacher of Olive Academies Cambridge, remarked, “They all did themselves proud.” The Designated Safeguarding Lead added, “They’ve all done incredible, we’re so pleased!”
Young People Shared:
“I passed everything and got 9 certifications! Thank you. If I didn’t meet Inspire 2 Ignite, I don’t know where I would be right now.”
“We passed all our GCSEs and are going on to bigger things!”
One participant even extended their self-development journey into the summer holidays by completing a work experience placement at Bidwells, sharing:
"I got such a nice welcoming by Bidwells. I’ve now met a new community which I see as a new family. You treat me like a human being. I really appreciate this and giving me the belief to be my true self."
These milestones remind us of the immense potential that can be unlocked when young people are given inspiring spaces to learn and the opportunity to access real-world experiences that foster new connections.
The “Curious About Ice Cream” Entrepreneurial Journey
One of the standout initiatives this year has been Inspire 2 Ignite’s “Curious About Ice Cream” programme. Through this project, young people activated their entrepreneurial spirit while learning practical business skills—all from within the walls of The Bradfield Centre.
Students took charge of their venture, negotiating with suppliers, setting pricing strategies, and engaging with customers.
Over two delivery days, held here at The Bradfield Centre, the students welcomed over 100 customers and earned over £400 in sales—a true testament to their hard work.
The Deputy CEO of Olive Academies described the initiative as “Absolutely brilliant!”
Student Reflections:
- “I can talk to people.”
- “I can sell.”
- “What’s next? I want to learn more about business!”
It’s clear that the skills and confidence gained through this programme will serve these young people for years to come. As the Deputy Headteacher remarked, “This is social mobility in action.”
Spooky Fundraising and Skills Building
October brought a unique energy to The Bradfield Centre as Inspire 2 Ignite’s young entrepreneurs hosted a Halloween-themed fundraiser. Events like the Boo-tiful Bradfield Bake Off and the Guess the Sweet Jar challenge displayed their creativity and determination while raising over £200.
One young participant shared their experience:
- “It was nerve-racking going up to residents, but as the day went on, I felt much calmer and smoother with the process. We had such a busy day!”
These events highlight the power of combining entrepreneurial activities with community engagement—building confidence while increasing social mobility.
RJ’s Remarkable Journey
Among the many inspiring stories we’ve seen, RJ’s stands out. Over two weeks, RJ participated in a work experience programme at Inspire 2 Ignite which included a special visit to The Bradfield Centre, where he got to meet the Barclays Eagle Labs team and see the Premier League Trophy up close. The joy and confidence RJ gained through this experience was vivid to see.
From RJ’s Parent:
- "They haven’t been this happy in MONTHS. For me to have a happy child is all I want, and you’ve facilitated that this week. From a dad… thank you. I’ll owe you forever.”
It’s moments like these that remind us of the importance of creating inspiring experiences for young people to open their imagination about what vision they can see for themselves in the future,
Looking Forward
As we look to 2025, we’re excited to continue supporting Inspire 2 Ignite’s mission. Plans for a youth-led Vlog series, community events in the auditorium and entrepreneurial pop-ups will create connections with residents and provide promising opportunities for young people to learn new skills, build networks and activate into their communities and local economy.
It’s an honour to partner with an organisation that shares our commitment to innovation, growth, and social mobility. Together, we’re shaping a brighter future.
Join Us in Supporting Change
We invite you to join us in celebrating and supporting the incredible work Inspire 2 Ignite is doing. Together, we can continue to create spaces where young people thrive and realise their full potential.
If you wish to find out more about Inspire 2 Ignite to support their mission, please contact their team using the links below:
Website: https://www.inspire2ignite.co....
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/compa...