Urban Pursuit started in Bristol in 2011, with founders Neil and Karen 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.
Neil gave up a role as Assistant Headteacher and his career in mainstream education in order to provide better support for vulnerable young people. Karen 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.
Avonquay House
Avonquay
Cumberland Basin
Bristol
BS1 6XL
Tel: 0117 239 0932
Mob: 07737 848 090
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.
Karen 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. Karen 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.
Bristol Centre
Avonquay House
Avonquay
Cumberland Basin
Bristol
BS1 6XL
Email: office@urbanpursuit.co.uk
Tel: 0117 239 0932
Mob: 07737 848090
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