Supporting Schools in Luton
Our partnership with Obex Foundation, which began early in 2024, continues to gain momentum, marking a significant milestone as we secure funding to deliver On Track to Achieve in a seventh school. This achievement brings us closer to our shared goal—expanding into all 13 schools in Luton. In just a year, we’re already nearing the halfway mark, a testament to the pressing need for our work and the impact we’re making. We are delighted that through this partnership, our world class athlete mentors are able to work with more students to improve confidence, resilience and wellbeing, equipping them with a winning mindset that’s ready to achieve.
A report by Luton Borough Council identifies Dallow, Biscot, Farley, Northwell, Saints, and South as the town’s most deprived wards, with some neighbourhoods ranking among the top 10% most deprived nationally. While this data doesn’t pinpoint which high schools are most affected, it’s clear that schools serving these communities face significant challenges. This academic year, we’re working in Challney Girls’ School, Challney Boys’ School, Chiltern Academy, Stockwood Academy, Queen Elizabeth School and Lea Manor, helping to support students in some of Luton’s most disadvantaged areas. With funding for a seventh school already secured for the next academic year, our shared ambition with Obex Foundation is to reach many more young people facing challenges in their everyday lives.
One of the most concerning indicators of deprivation is student attendance. During the 2022/2023 Autumn and Spring terms, 23.7% of children in Luton were persistently absent from school—a statistic that underscores the barriers many students face in accessing education. Motivating and aspirational, our On Track to Achieve programme helps young people build healthy relationships in school and with the wider community, and understand the importance of physical and mental wellness. With a strong focus on their own personal development, it promotes positive behaviours and attitudes, and sets them up to achieve in education, work and life.
Tackling these challenges is a core part of Luton’s long-term vision, "Luton 2040," which aims to create a healthier, fairer, and more sustainable town where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. By continuing to expand our work in local schools, we’re committed to playing a vital role in this mission, offering more young people in Luton the support they need to succeed.
Anna Popescu is one of our athlete mentors who is working with young people in Luton
As we continue to grow our presence in the area, we’re delighted that world class athlete mentors, Elizabeth Cann and Anna Popescu, have joined former English National Champion badminton player, Suzanne Miller in our delivery team.
Elizabeth Cann is a former professional badminton player and four-time English National Champion. She has represented England at multiple Commonwealth Games, securing both silver and bronze medals. With a deep understanding of resilience, discipline, and the power of sport to transform lives, Elizabeth brings invaluable experience to inspire and mentor young people in Luton.
Anna Popescu, a talented former tennis player, has competed at a high level both nationally and internationally. Having experienced the dedication and mindset required to excel in sport, she is passionate about using her journey to help students build confidence, develop key life skills, and overcome challenges.
We are thrilled to have such a strong team driving real change in Luton and extend our gratitude to the Obex Foundation for their continued support in making this possible. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for young people across the town.