Lift Youth: Strength, Skills & Support for Young People

Lift Youth is our longest-running social impact project, designed for young people aged 11–17. It uses boxing and weightlifting to build confidence, strength, and life skills — offering a powerful alternative to traditional education and support pathways.

Participants train safely in gym environments using free weights, cardio equipment, plyometrics, and boxing techniques. They also gain nationally recognised Level 1 qualifications in fitness and pad-based boxing and can go on to complete 30 hours of work experience in our gyms.

The project is specifically designed for young people who are:

• NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training)

• At risk of becoming NEET

• Living with a criminal conviction

• Vulnerable to Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE)

Where We Work:

• Our Gyms: Magdalen Road and Botley

• In Schools: We bring the gym directly into local schools and work with The Oxford Academy, Wheatley Park School, Meadowbrook College, The Swan School, and Oxford Spires Academy

Alongside physical training, Lift Youth focuses on interpersonal development — teaching emotional regulation, communication, and resilience through empowering, structured sessions.