Ten schools in Bradford were found to have rates at least four times higher than the national figure of 3.54 exclusions per 100 pupils.
A new alternative provision aimed at supporting students at risk of exclusion has officially opened in Bradford. Link AP Academy, located at Listerhills Science Park on Campus Road, held its grand opening event last month, welcoming key stakeholders and education professionals from across the district.
Founded and managed by Shazad Ali, the academy offers a specialist learning environment for students aged 11 to 16 in Key Stages 3 and 4 (Years 7 to 11). The initiative is designed to re-engage pupils who face permanent exclusion, are vulnerable to criminal exploitation, or have special educational needs.
Students at risk of exclusion in UK schools are those who are at heightened risk of being temporarily (fixed-term) or permanently excluded from mainstream education. This issue is complex and often reflects deeper social, emotional, and systemic challenges.
The opening of Link AP Academy comes as recent data revealed a worrying trend in Bradford schools, with one institution recording an exclusion and suspension rate 15 times higher than the national average.
Ten schools in the city were found to have rates at least four times higher than the national figure of 3.54 exclusions per 100 pupils.
Speaking at the opening, Mr. Ali highlighted the increasing challenges schools face since the Covid-19 pandemic. “There has been an ever-increasing number of exclusions from schools,” he said.
“Schools are struggling financially, and students’ learning gaps are widening. We offer a small, focused setting where students can receive one-on-one support tailored to their emotional, social, and academic needs.”
The academy will deliver core subjects including maths, English, and science, as well as vocational pathways, all taught by fully qualified teachers. The aim is to prepare students for a return to mainstream education or to help them transition into employment.
Karen Cruise, CEO of Flourished Minds, Dr Ikram Butt, Chelsea Wright – head of the centre, along with members from West Yorkshire police and fire services were among the attendees at the launch event.
Mr. Ali, who previously worked at Bradford Academy and grew up in the city, said he launched Link AP Academy to give back to the community.
“As the founder, I am committed to creating a nurturing and dynamic learning environment where every student is given the opportunity to succeed,” he said. “Bradford needs more opportunities like this – a breath of fresh air to support our young people.”
