Taking risks to transform lives

Our Story

We have always been committed to supporting young people in their personal and social development by engaging them with adrenaline sports and adventure. Here’s a summary of the journey so far…

Our Values

We're committed to building lasting relationships  

We're proud to go the extra mile

We never give up on young people

Urban Pursuit started in Bristol in 2011, with founders Neil and Emma Dennison. Since the beginning, things have been driven by a deep belief that we can change the story for many who struggle within mainstream education. 

Urban Pursuit’s focus on personal and social development is engrained throughout the Education Programme, which uses activities and adventure as a tool of engagement. Young people typically spend a day each week at Urban Pursuit alongside their regular education.

Urban Pursuit Video

Neil gave up a role as Assistant Headteacher and his career in mainstream education in order to provide better support for vulnerable young people.  Emma moved from a role in the council’s Behaviour Support Team and brought her experience in mentoring and small group work. 

Together they worked toward the vision of ‘every vulnerable young person finding hope and a future’.  There have been many changes since those early days, but the belief remains the same: that the transformative power of relationship, risk and adventure can reduce school exclusions.

Ten years after those early days, we’ve happily found a home in Cardiff too.  Quickly learning about the many activities offered in the city and beyond towards the Bannau Brycheiniog, a team was built up along with a new base to welcome pupils from many different schools.

Bristol Office

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Bristol Office

Cardiff Office

Get in touch

Cardiff Office

"Urban Pursuit is a very professional alternative education provider with such an impact on students' learning and development.  Their dedication to understanding students on an individual level enables them to gain confidence and build their self-esteem. The individual feedback provided is invaluable."
Jo Williams
Redland Green School

Meet our Founders

Neil Dennison

Neil started working with young people in the mid-nineties, spending 15 years as a secondary school teacher.  

He was Assistant Head at Ansford School in Somerset for six years before giving up his career and setting up Urban Pursuit. His vision was, and is, is to see the lives of vulnerable young people transformed for the better.

Neil has a strong passion for adrenaline and adventure activities. Neil is a qualified Mountain Leader, Climbing Instructor and Mountain Bike Leader and also loves snowboarding, BMX, off-road driving, wilderness adventures and various water sports.

Emma Dennison

Emma worked with young people in youth work and schools for over 14 years and has a wealth of experience in the fields of mentoring and coaching. 

She is passionate about seeing young people realise their potential and daring to step out of their comfort zones. Emma has overseen our Education Programmes before leaving to be a full-time mum. 

She loves outdoor adventure activities and particularly enjoys climbing, mountain biking, water sports and snowboarding.

What our clients & young people say

Bristol Centre
Avonquay House
Avonquay
Cumberland Basin
Bristol
BS1 6XL

Email: office@urbanpursuit.co.uk

Tel: 0117 239 0932  
Mob: 07737 848090

TAKING RISKS TO TRANSFORM LIVES!

Cardiff Centre
Millgove House
Parc Ty Glas
Llanishen
Cardiff
CF14 5DU

Email: office@urbanpursuit.co.uk

Mob: 07942 320034

Urban Pursuit Education Ltd  Company No. 12392453 Vat No. 384287069

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