Company registration number: 06228171
Charity registration number: 1121717
Southside Young Leaders Academy
IA company limited by guarantee)
Trustees, Report and Financial Statements
for the Year ended 31 August 2024
HFL Accountants Limited
Chartered Certified Accountants
HFL House
Saxon Way
Melbourn
Cambridgeshire
SG8 6DN

Southside Young Leaders Academy
Contents
Reference and Administrative Details
Tru5tees' Report
2to5
Statement of Trustees, Responsibilities
Independent Examiner's Report
Statement of Financial Activities
Balance Sheet
Notes to the Financial Statements
10-16

Southside Young Leaders Academy
Report of the Trustees for the year ended 31 August 2024
The trustees who are also directors of the charity for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006.
present their report with the unaudited financial statements of the charity for the year ended
31 August 2024.
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS
Registered Company number
Registered Charity number
06228171 (England and Wales)
1121717
Registered Office:
Ark Academy Walworth
Shorncliffe Road
London
SEI 5UJ
TRUSTEES:
Winston Davis
Veronica Johnstone
Max Woodbridge
Caren Onanda
Valentina Nnennaya Okoro
Ansumana Bai-marrow
Justice Allotey
Alfred Ayisi
Samuel Osei-sarkodie
Chairperson appointed April 2019
Treasurer appointed July 2021
Secretary appointed July 2021
Appointed ALJgust 2020
Appointed May 2023
Appointed May 2024
Appointed January 2G25
Appointed January 2025
Appointed February 2020 resigned May 2024
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER
HFL Accountants
HFL House,
I Saxon Way,
Melbourn,
Royston
SG8 6DN
BANK
Lloyds Bank PIC
Canary Wharf Branch
Unit 3 Park Pavilion
40 Canada Square
Canary Wharf
London
E14 5FW
EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP:
Charlotte Prendergast
CEO
Page I

Southside Young Leaders Academy
Report of the Trustees for the year ended 31 August 2024
STRucfuRE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
GOVERNING DOCUMENT
The charity is controlled by its governing document, a deed of trust. and constitutes a limited
company, limited by guarantee, as defined by the Companies Act 2006.
The organisation is a charitable company limited by guarantee, incorporated on 26th April 2￿7
and registered as a charity on 28th November 2007. The company was established under
Memorandum of Association which established the objects and powers of the charitable company
and is governed under its Articles of Association. In the event of the company being wound up
every member of the charity undertakes to contribute such amount as may be required (not
exceeding £1) and subject to any such resolution by the members, the Directors of the Charity
may resolve that any net assets of the charity after all its debts and liabilities have been paid shall
be applied or transferred in any of the followin8 ways.,
la) directly for the Objects,, or
Ib} by transfer to any other Charity or Charities for purposes similar to the Objects,. or
Icl to any Charity for use for particular purpose that fall within the objects.
RECRUITMENT AND APPOINTMENT OF NEW TRUSTEES
Potential trustees are recruited by advertising through various channels including online
recruitment platforms and word of mouth recommendations, Candidates are interviewed by the
Chair and the Secretary and they are asked to provide two referees and subject to safeguarding
checks. If formally approved by the other Board members, they will be invited to become Trustees.
ORGANISATIONAL STRucfuRE
The Southside Young Leaders Academy (SYLA) has a Board of Trustees who meet every 12 weeks
and who are responsible for the strategic direction and policy of the charity. At the balance sheet
date, the trustees consisted of seven members from a variety of professional backgrounds
relevant to the work of the charity.
SYLA recruited a new full-time Chief Executive, Charlotte Prendergast, in January 2022. Charlotte
attends the quarterly board meetin85 to provide operational updates, though she has no voting
rights.
RISK MANAGEMENT
The trustees have a duty to identify and review the risks to which the charity is exposed and to
ensure appropriate controls are in place to provide reasonable assurance against fraud and error.
The Board has a formal, written policy of internal financial control procedures which will continue
to be monitored and updated to cover new risk areas as and when they are identified.
Safeguardin8 the boys remains an utmost priority-
Page 2

Southside Young Leaders Academy
Report of the Trustees for the year ended 31 August 2024
OBJEcfivES AND AIMS
The mission of SYLA is to nurture, develop, maximise and release the leadership potential of young
men from the African and Afro-caribbean communityfrom disadvantaged backgrounds, especially
those at risk of exclusion from school, empowering them to become positive active citizens and a
new generation of business and community leaders.
SYLA'S CORE VALUES ARE:
Excellence & Aspiration
Team Work & Service
Evidence-Based Practice & Learnin8
Transparency & Accountability
STRATEGIC OBJEcfivES
l. To support each boy, through needs assessment and activities relevant to their transitional
stages (such as counselling and mentoring and enhancement of the educational and
leadership programmesl, to identify and achieve their development goals, and develop as a
young leader;
2. To strengthen current and develop new partnerships with key stakeholders, agencies, and
experts, forming a support matrix that helps the boys attain their development goals;
3. To develop a knowledge base of what works in empowering boys to become young leaders,
to share good practice, and to identify and promote effective education policies.
GUIDANCE ON PUBLIC BENEFIT
Trustees are aware of the Charity Commission guidance on thls subject and confirm that they will read the
PDF documents contained on the Commission's website.
Page 3

Southside Young Leaders Academy
Report of the Trustees for the year ended 31 August 2024
ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE
OVERVIEW OF THE YEAR
Black African and Caribbean boys continue to face multiple disadvantages that impact their educational and
life outcomes. In 2023124, SYLA continued its work to tackle these inequalities by supporting boys and young
men living in Southwark and Lambeth.
Despite social and economic challenges, SYLA increased engagement by 25%. reaching 81 boys and young
men.
This included:
60 boys attending the Young Leaders Programme,
16 boys receiving bursaries through the Scholars Programme,
5 alumni mentoring others through the Young Ambassador Programme,
32 parents engaged through our Parents Partnership.
Other achievements include delivering 406 hours of mentoring, tutorin& and enrichment activities.
We also strengthened our community presence by winning the Southwark Together Civic Award.
SYLA PROGRAMMES
Young Leaders Programme: Continued delivery of academic sUPPOrt, leadership skills, sports, and
wellbeing sessions.
Scholars Programme.. Supported boys through full bursaries at state or independent boarding
schools in partnership with Royal National Sprin8board Foundation.
Youn8 Ambassadors Alumni Programme: Provided mentoring opportunities and leadership
development for SYLA alumni.
Parent Partnership Programme: Supported parents with workshops, summits, and fundraising
activities, includin8 raising £2,000 through a community walk.
OUTCOMES
IthJ% of A-Level Scholars progressed to university.
93% of Young Leaders progressed by at least one grade in Maths.
85% improved public speaking skills.
78Y¢ reported enhanced teamwork through sports participation.
Further information can be found in our 2023-24 Impact Report which is attached to this report.
FUTURE PLANS
SYLA aims to continue to:
Expand school referral models.
Strengthen local partnerships with Southwark Council and schools.
Develop a long-term alumni outcomes tracking system.
Build a sustainable alumni mentoring pipeline.
Page 4

Southside Young Leaders Academy
Report of the Trustees for the year ended 31 August 2024
Flnanclal Review
Policy on reserves
The trustees have examined the charity's requirements for reseNes in light of the main risks to
the organisation. It has established a policy whereby the unrestricted funds not committed or
invested in tangible fixed assets held by the charity should be sufficient to cover three months of
operational expenditure. The Trustees regularly review the amount of reserves that are required
to ensure that they are adequate to fulfil the charity's continuing obligations.
Going concern
The Trustees consider that there are no uncertainties about the charity's ability to continue for
the future.
This report has been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the
Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.
The annual report was approved by the Board of Trustees on
and signed on its behalf by..
(ThAY 2oas
Winston Davis
Chair and trustee
Page 5

Southside Young Leaders Academy
Statement of Trustees, responsibilities
The trustees, who are also directors of the charity forthe purposes of the Companies Act 2(X)6 are
responsible for preparing the trustees, report and the financial statements in accordance with
applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards including FRS102 The Financial
Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland. The report and accounts have
been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small
companies regime as set out in Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 and in accordance with the
Charities SORP {FRS 102}.
Company law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under
company law, the trustees must not approve financial statements unless they are satisfied that
they give a true and fair view of the state of the charitable company and of the incoming resources
and application of resources, including its income a nd expenditure, of the charitable company for
that period. In preparing their financial statements, the trustees are required to.,
Select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently
Observes the methods and principles in the Charities SORP
Make judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent
State whether applicable accounting standards, comprising FRS102 have been followed,
subject to any material departure disclosed and explained in the financial statements: and
Prepare the financial statements on the ongoing concern basis unless it is inappropriate to
presume that the charitable company will continue.
The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show
and explain the charitable company's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at anv
time the financial position of the charitable company and enable them to ensure that the financial
statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguardin8 the
assets of the charitable company and hence for takin8 reasonable steps for the prevention and
detection of fraud and other irregularities.
The trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial
information included on the cha ritable company's website. Legislation governing the preparation
and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.
Approved by the trustees of the charity on
by
... fTh*.y... Qoas
and signed on its behalf
Winston Davis
Chair and trustee
Page 6

Southside Young Leaders Academy
Independent Examlner's Report to the trustees of Southside Young Leaders Academy
{"the Company")
I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the financial statements of Southside Young
Leaders Academy for the year ended 31 August 2024.
Responsibilities and basis of report
As the charity's trustees of the Company land also its directors for the purposes of company lawl you
are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the
Companies Act 20061'the 2006 Act,).
Having satisfied myself that the financial statement of Southside Young Leaders Academy are not
required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I
report in respect of my examination of your charity's financial statements as carried out under section
145 of the Charities Act 20111'the 2011 Act'l. In carrying Out my examination I have followed the
Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145{51{bl of the 2011 Act.
Independent examlnerfs statement
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection
with the examination giving me cause to believe:
l. accounting records were not kept in respect of Southside Youn8 Leaders Academy as required bv
section 386 of the 2006 Act,. or
2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or
3. the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act
other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'true and fair view, which is not a matter
considered as part of an independent examination,. or
4. the financial statements have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles
of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities lapplicable
to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard
applicable in the U K and Republic of Ireland {FRS 102}1.
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to
which attention Should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the
accounts to be reached.
Tracey Nich
HFL Accountants Limited
HFL House
I Saxon Way
Melbourn
Cambridgeshire
SG8 60N
Page 7

Southside Young Leaders Academy
Statement of Financial Actlvltles for the year ended 31 August 2024
Unrestrlcted
Funds
Restrlthed
funds
Total
2024
Note
Income and Endowments from:
Donations and legacie5
49,339
126,293
175.632
Investment income
230
230
Other income
Total income
49,569
126,293
175,862
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
Charitable activitie5
1801
136,8471
1801
1163,0361
1126,1891
Total expenditure
136.9271
1126,1891
1163,1161
Net income / lexpendlturel
12.642
104
12,746
Net movement in funds
12.642
104
12,746
Reconclllatlon of funds
Total funds brought forward
77.805
577
78.382
Total funds carried forward
15
90,447
681
91,128
Unreslrlcted
Funds
Restrlcted
funds
Total
2023
Note
Income and Endowments from".
Donations and legacies
49,841
137,612
187,453
Investment income
92
92
Other Income
8,948
8,948
Total income
58,881
137,612
196,493
Expendlture on:
Charitable activitles
126,4381
226,7581
1253,1961
Total expenditure
126.4381
1226,7581
1253.1961
Net income / lexpenditurel
32,443
189,1461
156,7031
Net movement in funds
32.443
189,1461
156,7031
Reconclliatlon of funds
Total funds brought forward
45,362
89,723
135,085
Total funds carried forward
15
77.805
577
78,382
The notes on pages 10 to 16 form an integral part of these financial statements.
Page 8

Southside Young Leaders Academy
(Reglstratlon number . 062281711
Balance Sheet as at 31 August 2024
2024
2023
Note
Flxed assets
Tangible Assets
12
204
Current assets
Cash at bank and in hand
144,614
128,167
144,614
128,167
Credltors: Amounts falllng due wlthln one year
13
153,4861
149,9891
Net current assets
91,128
91,128
78,178
78,382
Net assets
Funds of the charltv:
Restrlcted In¢ome funds
Restricted funds
681
577
Unrestrlcted Ineome funds
Unrestrlcted funds
90,447
77,805
Total funds
15
91,128
78,382
For the financial year endin8 31 August 2024 the charity was entitled to exemptlon from audlt under sectlon 477 of the
Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.
Directors, responsibilities
The members have not required the charlty to obtain and audlt of Its accounts for the year In question In
accordance with section 476; and
The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Act wlth respect
to accountin8 records and the preparation of accounts.
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the special provisions relating to companies subject
to the small companie5 regime within Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006.
These financial statements on pages 8 to 16 were approved by the trustees and authorised for issue and signed on their
behalf bv:
Winston Davis
Chair and Trustee
Date..
The note5 on page5 10 to 16 form an integral part of these flnancial statements.
Page 9

Southside Young Leaders Academy
Notes to the Financlal Statements for the year ended 31 August 2024
I Charlty Status
The charity is lirnited by 8uarantee, incorporated in England and Wales, and consequently does not have share capital.
Each of the trustees is liable to contribute and amount not exceeding £1 towards the assets of the charity in the event
of liquidation.
2 Accounling pollcles
Summary of slgnificant accountlng policles and key accountln8 estlmates
The principal accountin8 policies applied in the preparation of these financial statements are set out below. These
policies have been consistently applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated.
Statement of compllance
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities Statement of
Recommended Practice (applicable to charitie5 preparing their accounts in accordance with Financial Reporting
Standard appllcable In the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 10211 Ilssued in October 20191- (Charities SORP IFRS 10211,
the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic or Ireland IFRS 1021 and the Companie5 Act 2006.
Basls of preparatlon
Southside Youn8 Leaders Academy meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS102. Assets and liabilities
are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accountin8 policy
notes.
Golng concern
The trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties about the charity's ability to continue as a going concern
not any si8nificant areas of uncertainty that affect the carrying value of assets held by the charity.
Exernptlon from preparlng a cash flow statement
The charity opted to early adopt Bulletln I publlshed on 2 February 2016 and have not included a cash flow statement
in these financial statements.
Income and endowments
All income is recognised once the charity has entitlement to the Income, it is probable that the income wlll be received,
and the amount of the income can be measured rellably.
Donatlons and legacles
Donations are recognised when the charity has been notified in writing of both the amount and settlement date. In the
event that a donation is subject to conditions that require a level of performance by the charity before the charity is
entitled to the funds, the income is deferred and not recognised until either those conditions are fully met, or the
fulfilment of those conditions is wholly within the control of the charity and it is probable that these conditions will be
fulfilled in the reporting period.
Investment Income
Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the charity:
this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the bank.
Expendlture
All expenditure is recognised once there is a le8al or constructlve obligation to that expenditure, it is probable
settlement is required and the amount can be measured reliably. All costs are allocated to the applicable expenditure
headin8 that aggregate5 similar costs to that category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headin85
they have been allocated on a basis consistent with the use of the resources, with central staff cost5 allocated on the
basis of time spent, and depreciation charges allocated on the portion of the asset's use. Other sUPPOrt costs are
allocated based on the spread of staff costs.
Page 10

Southside Young Leaders Academy
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 August 2024
Charltable actlvltles
Charitable expenditure comprises those costs incurred by the ¢harity in the delivery of its activities and services for
beneficiaries. It includes both cost5 that can be allocated directly to such activities and those costs of an indirect nature
to support them.
Governance costs
Thes include the costs attributable to the charity's compliance with the constitutional and statutory requirements,
including audit, strategic management and trustees. meetings and reimbursed expenses.
Taxatlon
The charity is considered to pa55 the tests set out in Paragraph l of Schedule 6 of the Finance Act 2010 and meets the
deflnition of a charitable company for UK corporation tax purposes. Therefore, the charity is potentially exempt from
taxation in respect of income or capital gains received within categories covered by Chapter 3 Part 11 of the Corporation
Tax Act 2010 or Section 256 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992, to the extent that such income or 8ain5 are
applied exclusively to charitable purposes.
Tanglble flxed assets
Individual fixed assets costin8 £300 or more are initially recorded at cost, le55 any subsequent accumulated depreciation
and subsequent accumulated impairment10sses.
Depreclatlon and amortlsatlon
Depreciation is provided on tangible fixed assets so as to write off the cost or valuation, less any estimated residual
value, over their expected useful economic life as follows..
Asset class
Computer and office equipment
Depreclatlon method and rate
3 years on cost
Trade Debtors
Trade debtors are amounts due from donors. They are initially recognlsed at transaction prlce. A provision for the
impairment of trade debtors is established where there is objective evidence that the charity will not be able to collect
all amounts due according to the ori8inal terms of the receivables.
Cash and cash equlvalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash on hand and call deposit5, and other short term high liquid investments that
are readily convertible to a known amount of cash and subject to an insignificant risk of chan8e in value.
Trade Credltors
Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or servlces that have been acquired in the ordinary course of business
from suppliers. Accounts payable are classified as current liabilities if the charity does not have an unconditional ri8ht,
at the end of the reporting period, to defer settlement of the creditor for at least twelve months after the reporting
date. If there is an unconditional right to defer settlement for at least twelve months after the reporting date, they are
presented as non-current liabilities.
Trade creditors are recognised initially at the transaction price and subsequently measured at the amortised cost using
the effective interest method.
Fund structure
Unrestricted income fund5 are general funds that are available for use at the trustees discretion in furtherin8 the
objectives of the charity.
Restricted income funds are those donated for use in a particular area or for specific purposes, the use of which 15
restricted to that area or purpose.
Page 11

Southside Young Leaders Academy
Notes to the Flnancial Statements for the year ended 31 August 2024
Pen51on and other post retlrement obllgatlons
The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme which is a pension plan under which fixed contributions
are paid into a pension fund and the charity has no le8al or constructive obligation to pay further contribution5 even if
the fund does not hold sufficient assets to pay all employees the benefits relating to employee seryice in the current
and prior periods.
Contributions to defined contribution plans are recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities when they are due.
If contribution payments exceed the contribution due for service. the excess is recognised as a prepayment.
3 Income from donatlons and legacles
Unre5trlcted
Funds
Restrlcted
funds
Total
funds
Donatlons from companies, trusts and similar
37,344
126.293
163,637
Donatlon5 from Individuals
11,995
11,995
Total for 2024
49,339
126,293
175,632
Totsl for 2023
49,841
137.612
187.453
4 Other Income
Unrestrlcted
Funds
Restrlcted
funds
Total
funds
Total for 2024
Total for 2023
8,948
8,948
Page 12

Southside Young Leaders Academy
Notes to the Financlal Statements for the year ended 31 August 2024
5 Expenditure on ralslng funds
Unrestricted
Funds
Restrlcted
funds
Total
funds
Fundraisin8 Costs
80
80
Total for 2024
80
80
Totsl for 2023
6 Expendlture on charltable actlvltles
Unrestrlrted
Funds
Restrlcted
funds
Total
funds
Charitable actlvltle5
5,240
8,128
13,368
Staff costs
26,463
113,002
139,465
Governance Costs
5,144
5,059
10,203
Total for 1024
36,847
126,189
163,036
Total for 2023
26,438
226.7S8
253.196
7 Analysls of 8overnance and support costs
Unrestrlcted
Funds
Restrlcted
fund5
Total
funds
Independent examiner fees
900
900
Legal fees
944
2,059
3,003
Other governance costs
3.300
3,000
6,300
Total for 2024
5,144
5,059
10.203
Totsl for 2023
600
12.999
13,599
8 Trustee remuneratlon and expenses
No trustees. nor any persons connected with thern, have received any remuneration from the charity during the year.
Page 13

Southside Young Leaders Academy
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 August 2024
9 Staff costs
The a8gregate payroll costs were as follows..
2024
2023
Staff costs durlng the year were:
Wages and salaries
115,325
165,906
Social security costs
6,301
15,878
Pension costs
3,289
4.122
Other staff costs
14,550
139,465
22,318
208,224
The monthly average number of persons lincludin8 senior management / leadership team) employed by
the charity during the year as full time equivalents was as follows..
2024
No
2023
No
Employees
No employees received emoluments of rnore than £60.000 during the year.
10 Independent examlnerfs remuneratlon
2024
2023
Examination of financial statements
900
800
11 Taxatlon
The charity is a reBlStered charity and 15 therefore exempt from taxation
Page 14

Southside Youn8 Leaders Academv
Notes to the Financlal Statements for the year ended 31 August 2024
12 Tanglble flxed assets
Computer
Equlpment
Total
Cost
As at I September 2023
4,422
4,422
As at 31 August 2024
4,422
4,422
Depreclatlon
As at I September 2023
4.218
4,218
Charge for year
204
204
As at 31 August 2024
4,422
4,422
Net book value
At 31 August 2023
204
204
At 31 August 2024
13 Credltors: amounts falllng due wlthln one year
1024
2023
Other taxation and social security
1,102
2,491
Other creditors
1,056
1.125
Accrua15 and deferred income
51,328
46,373
53,486
49,989
14 Pen51on and other schemes
Deflned contrlbutlon penslon scheme
The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The pension cost charge for the year represents
contributions payable by the charity to the scheme and amounted to £3,28912023.. £4,122).
Page 15

Southside Young Leaders Academy
Notes to the Flnancial Statements for the year ended 31 August 2024
15 Funds
Balance at
I September
2023
Balance at
31 August
2024
Incoming
Resources
Resources
expended
Unrestrlcted funds
General
77,805
49,569
136,9271
90,447
Restrlrted funds
577
126,293
1126,1891
681
Total funds
78,382
175,862
1163,1161
91,128
Balance at
31 Au8USt
2023
Balance at
l May 2011
Incomln8
Resources
Resources
expended
Unrestrlcted funds
58,
881
General
45,362
126,4381
77,805
Restrlcted funds
89,723
137,612
1226,7581
577
Total funds
135,085
196,493
1253,1961
78,382
Page 16

&$
a.ct
ort
2023124
SOUTHSIDE
Young Leaders Academy

## **Table of Contents** 

|Foreword|3|
|---|---|
|||
|||
|Our Year in Numbers|4|
|||
|SYLA 2023/24 Programmes|5|
|||
|||
|Outcomes for Young Leaders|6|
|||
|||
|Case Study: Young Leader|9|
|||
|||
|Outcomes for Scholars|10|
|||
|||
|Case Study: Scholar|11|
|||
|||
|Young Ambassadors|12|
|||
|||
|Case Study: Young Ambassasor|13|
|||
|||
|Outcomes for Parents|14|
|||
|||
|Case Study: Parent|15|
|||
|||
|Acknowledgements|16|



SYLA IMPACT REPORT 

**2** 



## **Foreword** 

Black boys continue to face multiple challenges that affect their educational and life outcomes. School exclusions are still disproportionately high for Black boys, and they are often overrepresented as victims of crime. This past year, SYLA has been dedicated to tackling these social and educational inequalities by providing opportunities for less advantaged Black boys in Southwark and Lambeth. Our mission is to help them build confidence, skills, and leadership so they can reach their full potential, fostering a sense of purpose and belonging along the way. 

Despite the challenges, 2023/24 has been an incredible year for the SYLA community. We have embraced bold and ambitious goals, and together we have achieved some remarkable outcomes for our participants. This year, we proudly reported a 25% increase in engagement, reaching 81 boys and young men. Sixty boys took part in our Young Leaders Programme, and 16 participated in our Scholars Programme. Five SYLA alumni, aged 16 to 21, joined our new Young Ambassador Alumni Programme, where they served as mentors for our Young Leaders and Scholars. Additionally, we engaged 32 parents through our Southside Parents Partnership, offering practical workshops to help them support their sons effectively. 

This year, we introduced some exciting new initiatives to our programme offer. We added three new curriculum topics to our Young Leaders Programme: Oracy, Black Leaders Studies, and Employability Skills. We launched a mid-week online mentoring project, participated in our first-ever debating competition (and won against Lewisham Young Leaders Academy!), and hosted our first Parent Summit and Open Day, creating a vibrant sense of community. 

Collaboration remains at the heart of what we do at SYLA. We are incredibly grateful to our longterm partners — Elite Evolution, Leap, Team Up, and the Royal National Springboard Children's Foundation — who helped us deliver consistent and high-quality services this year, including our sports provision, conflict resolution project, academic tutoring, and transformative boarding school bursaries. Our programmes were enriched by working closely with our partners and our staff benefited from valuable training thanks to these collaborations. 

As a community-focused organisation, serving our local community is our top priority. This year, we forged strong partnerships with St Francis RC Primary School and Haberdashers Borough Academy in Southwark, who have become key referral partners in our effort to reach boys in greatest need. We also strengthened our ties with Southwark Council and have been fortunate to receive enthusiastic support from the Mayor of Southwark, Michael Situ, who has been a great champion of SYLA’s work in the borough. 

One of the proudest moments of the year was winning the Southwark Together Civic Award, recognising SYLA’s outstanding contribution to our community! 

This impact report celebrates our community of young leaders, scholars, alumni, parents, delivery partners, schools, board of trustees, funders, and of course our dedicated staff team who work hard to improve opportunity and life outcomes for our young people. 


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**Charlotte Prendergast CEO** 

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## me hoes fo, ytes tk oe= » ! iba: | ve» **Our year in numbers** \ |: i) 

**36 16** Saturday Academy boys supported on full **81** sessions delivered bursaries to attend boarding school hours of young people mentoring, reached across tutoring, and Young Leaders & enrichment Scholars **406** 

hours of mentoring, tutoring, and enrichment activities delivered 

young people reached across Young Leaders & Scholars Programmes 


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outbound residential at Hindleap Warren Activity Centre delivered 

parents engaged in parent **2 5** programme 1-week holiday SYLA alumni programmes employed as mentors delivered 



## =. ‘yy /_& ry - were > a **SYLA 2023/24 Programmes** 

## **Young Leaders** 

## **Scholars** 

Our Young Leaders Programme, offered through our Saturday Academy, is our flagship programme which aims to enhance academic success, build character, and develop leadership skills. We provide online mentoring every Wednesday and host week-long camps during Easter and summer. Additionally, we broaden our young leaders’ horizons with career days, university visits, educational trips, and connections to corporate firms. 

Our Scholars Programme offers a unique opportunity for a select group of deserving boys, aged 11-16, to receive a full bursary for a state or independent secondary boarding school, paving the way for a lifechanging education. This is delivered in partnership with the Royal National Children’s Springboard Foundation. 

## **Young Ambassadors** 

## **Parent Partnership** 

Our Young Ambassador Alumni Programme offers exceptional growth opportunities for young men who have excelled in our Young Leaders or Scholars Programmes. Ambassadors receive paid mentorships, guiding current young leaders and scholars, and gain access to valuable SYLA internships and exclusive experiences with our corporate partners. 

We work closely with parents to equip them with the knowledge and resources to actively support their son's education and transition to adulthood. We offer expert-led workshops on various topics, creating an engaging environment for parents to learn and connect. Parents benefit from a vital support network, opportunities to influence community change, and trustee positions on our board. 

## **Methodology for this report** 

Over the past year, we have evaluated the impact of our programmes by collecting data through a variety of methods. These included mid-year and end-of-year perception questionnaires, baseline assessments, and progress tests in English and math. We also conducted parent surveys and telephone consultations, staff observations, and case studies involving our current and former young leaders. 

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## **Outcomes for Young Leaders** 

## **We build character** 

**Our tailored leadership curriculum supports boys to increase confidence, self-regulate, build resilience, and develop positive self-regard.** 

## **Conflict management** 

Eight young leaders attended a transformative residential trip to Hindleap Warren Outdoor Centre in Surrey, facilitated by Leap Confronting Conflict. Our young leaders developed skills in conflict management, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence through engaging workshops that foster a safe space for open discussions. Through a range of team building activities, participants stepped into leadership roles, confronted their fears, and forged strong connections while overcoming challenges together. 

## **Online mentoring** 

We completed 24 weekly online mentoring sessions, fostering a safe space for our young leaders to engage with mentors and peers. They tackled weekly challenges, celebrated their accomplishments, and set ambitious goals for the week ahead. This ongoing support not only empowers our young leaders but also equips them with the skills and confidence to thrive. 

## **Leadership through sports** 

We offered weekly sports sessions to 45 boys, empowering them to develop character, teamwork, and communication skills while enhancing their health and wellbeing. Each halfterm, we introduced a new sport, including football, basketball, hockey, table tennis, and boxing, along with team-building exercises that inspired camaraderie and personal growth. 

_**“Attending SYLA has helped me understand the importance of self-regulation. I have demonstrated self-regulation by paying attention in lessons a lot more.”**_ 

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## **We improve academic achievement** 

**We address educational inequalities by building academic confidence and raising attainment in English and maths through weekly intensive tutoring.** 

We are proud to continue our partnership with Team Up. This year we provided essential weekly academic tuition for 45 boys to foster increased aspirations while enhancing their skills in maths and English. 

At the beginning of the programme, Team Up conducted thorough assessments for each boy. These results help us understand each boy's starting point and specific learning requirements, enabling us to craft individualised learning programmes. 

The small group sizes — limited to three boys per tutor — allowed for personalised and intensive tutoring, directly addressing each boy's unique learning needs. Our tutoring sessions took place every Saturday morning from October to May. For those with special educational needs, we offered invaluable one-to-one tutoring to boost their learning experience. 

We performed additional assessments midway through and at the end of the year to measure the boys' progress, highlighting the effectiveness of our tailored approach. 

_**“Since I have joined SYLA, I have improved in my performance in subjects like Maths and English, thanks to the Team Up sessions”.**_ 

## **100%** 

progressed by at least one grade in **English** 

## **83%** 

said attending SYLA is helping them make better progress at school 

**93%** 

progressed by at least one grade in **Math** 

**78%** 

said attending SYLA is helping them to set higher expectations 



## **We develop leadership and life skills.** 

## **Our practical workshops led by business mentors, build employability skills and an entrepreneurial mindset.** 

## **Black leaders studies** 

To empower our participants in developing essential leadership skills, we launched an innovative curriculum centered on Black leaders specifically designed for our younger cohorts. A total of twenty-eight boys, aged 8 to 11, engaged in 34 interactive weekly sessions that highlighted the inspiring stories of influential Black leaders, past and present, enabling them to enhance their own leadership potential and confidence. 

## **Public speaking** 

We launched an engaging debating project to empower boys to develop their public speaking skills while exploring topics that are significant to them. Over 8 weeks, 30 boys participated, culminating in an exciting competition in October 2023 with the Lewisham Young Leaders Academy on the motion “Should TikTok Be Banned for Teenagers,” in front of an audience of over 100 people. We won! Our goal is to expand on this success by uniting young leaders from various academies across London, providing a platform to discuss the issues that matter most to them, amplifying their voices and encouraging meaningful social change. 

## **Enterprising leaders** 

Our older cohort completed our 18-week business and enterprise programme, guided by a professional business mentor. They collaborated to build a business, secure funding from an investor, and create a product range of customdesigned mobile phone cases. They branded their product, developed a marketing strategy, and opened a company bank account. The project culminated in an exciting opportunity where they sold their products to the public at Portobello Market, turning their hard work into a profit 

## **Entrepreneurship holiday camps** 

We filled thirty-seven spots in our holiday entrepreneurship programmes. In April, we held a one-week ‘Dragon’s Den’themed Easter project, and in July, we ran a one-week summer project themed ‘The Apprentice.’ Participants engaged in workshops with real entrepreneurs to learn how to develop business ideas, brand and market products, and pitch to investors. 

## **88%** 

feel more confident to present ideas and speak in public 

## **85%** 

said SYLA has been a safe space to interact with their peers 

**74%** 

understand more about their personal strengths and challenges 

**78%** 

said the sports sessions improved their teamwork skills 

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## **Case study: meet Jason Young Leader** 

“ _My name is Jason Nkansah, and I am a young leader. I have been attending this programme for 4 and a half years and a lot has changed. Before I joined SYLA I would sometimes struggle with my attitude in general and I would occasionally get myself into trouble. But, over the past 4 and a half years, my attitude changed significantly. I can testify I have benefitted enormously since joining._ 

_I enjoy the Young Enterprise project and I have gradually improved in my performance in subjects like Maths and English, thanks to the Team Up sessions we have. The things that I have learnt at SYLA have helped me to take more responsibility with what I do at school and at home._ 

_From 8 years of age to 13, I went from a young boy who would often get into trouble, to a boy who is starting to be responsible with the actions that has happened, being a young leader, and ready for the future ahead of me._ 

_Currently, my future goals are to be a research doctor or chemical engineer._ 

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## **Outcomes for Scholars** 

## **Providing transformative bursaries** 

This year, through our long-standing partnership with Royal National Children’s Springboard Foundation, we successfully assisted 16 boys in our boarding school programme and helped two more secure bursaries for September 2024. Our commitment to transformative education is clear as, this year, 100% of our Scholars progressed to university, attending prestigious institutions such as the University of Birmingham, and Queen Mary University of London. Three Scholars completed their A-Levels and are now pursuing their chosen subjects at their selected universities. 

Eight Scholars benefited from the guidance of SYLA Alumni mentors who helped ensure their boarding experiences were impactful. 

## **100%** 

of A-level scholars progressed to university 

## **16** 

boys supported on full bursaries to attend boarding school 

_**“My boarding school experience has greatly impacted me by developing my independence and readiness for university.”**_ 



## **Case study: meet Daron Scholar** 

“ _My experiences with SYLA’s Scholars Programme have been very positive. I am enjoying my time at Royal Alexandra and Albert School (RAAS) where sports and a strong community spirit are prominent. The house system and rugby have helped me to communicate and bond with peers my age, foster healthy competition and help others._ 

_My biggest achievements at RAAS include receiving the Founder's Day Award in Year 7 for Chemistry, being named Year 7 Student of the Year, winning the Sum Dog Maths Competition in the local area, and earning bronze and silver medals in annual maths challenges._ 

_My boarding school experience has greatly impacted me by developing my independence and readiness for university. My current aspiration is to attend Queen Mary University to study Maths, Accounting, and Finance. SYLA and boarding school have shaped this goal by providing a supportive environment that nurtured my academic and personal growth. My mindset now is one of preparedness and optimism for the future._ 

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## **5** 

SYLA alumni employed as mentors 

**370** 

mentoring hours delivered by SYLA alumni 

## **Young Ambassadors** 

## **Alumni engagement** 

Our Young Ambassador Alumni Programme offers development opportunities and progression routes for young men who have completed our Young Leaders or Scholars Programmes. Ambassadors gain access to professional development, paid mentorships, training to mentor current participants, paid SYLA internships, and exclusive work experiences with corporate partners. 

This year, we welcomed five SYLA alumni as mentors, serving as positive role models for our young leaders and scholars. 

_**“Without SYLA’s help I wouldn’t be in the great position I am in today. I have come back to work for SYLA on their Internship Programme to give back the support that I received, and to share my knowledge with the current young leaders”.**_ 

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## **Case study: meet Favour Young Ambassador** 

“ _My journey with SYLA began in Year 6 when I was introduced through their outreach programme. Before SYLA, I wasn’t just lacking direction—I was grappling with the absence of role models and the sense of stability that so many take for granted. I grew up in a single-parent household, where my mother shouldered the burden of raising me and my two older sisters on her own. Being the only boy and having no male figure to guide me, I often felt isolated, searching for validation in the wrong places._ 

_SYLA became a beacon of hope in those uncertain years. It provided me with role models who looked like me and saw in me what I couldn’t yet see in myself. Within SYLA’s walls, I found a space where I wasn’t the “disruptive kid” but rather a young leader in the making. SYLA opened doors I never imagined I could step through. From visiting law firms and banks in the city to entrepreneurial workshops, each experience broadened my horizons._ 

_At 13, SYLA’s Scholars Programme gave me a life-changing opportunity—a bursary to attend a boarding school in Surrey. It was a completely unfamiliar_ 

_environment, removed from everything I had ever known but where I grew the most. I discovered resilience and learned the value of perseverance._ 

_Today, I am a history graduate from the University of Warwick and a current law student—a journey that began with the encouragement and support of SYLA. For young people like me, SYLA can be a lifeline. It can and does shape our futures._ 

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## **Outcomes for Parents** 

## **Building a stronger community** 

## **32** 

parents directly engaged 

This year, we significantly enhanced our parent programme and integrated it into SYLA’s offering. By consulting with parents, we tailored our training workshops to better meet their needs, resulting in impactful sessions. 

We brought in an expert family therapist to lead a workshop on Understanding Your Child's Behaviour, providing parents with effective strategies to address behavioural challenges. Our Understanding School Policies workshop empowered parents to engage confidently with schools, while a Mind Health & WellBeing workshop offered essential support. Additionally, we hosted drop-in coffee mornings every six weeks to strengthen connections among parents. 

In March, we collaborated with the Mayor of Southwark for our inaugural Parent Summit and Open Day, which brought together local families and raised awareness of SYLA. The event featured a panel discussion on Raising Boys to Be Future Leaders, attracting around 100 participants. 

In July, our parent community organised a sponsored walk in Burgess Park, promoting community engagement and raising funds for SYLA. Their efforts resulted in £2,000 raised. 

_**“SYLA didn’t just help my son—it empowered me. Through the parent programme, I’ve gained skills that help me support my son’s growth.”**_ 

## **100** 

attendees at our parent summit 

**7** 

parent coffee mornings and expertled training workshops delivered 

## **£2K** 

raised from our parent community fundraiser walk 



## **Case study: meet Mariam Parent** 

“ _Before joining SYLA, I was at my wits’ end. My son and I were on the verge of losing our connection due to family challenges. I had tried everything but felt completely out of options. When I heard about SYLA, I knew it was my last hope to rebuild our relationship and guide my son toward his potential._ 

_Tariq’s growth has been incredible since joining SYLA. The Conflict Management workshops have made a huge difference. He now knows how to handle difficult situations calmly and doesn’t let negativity from others affect his confidence. The Business Enterprise activities have also had a big impact. Tariq learned how to come up with ideas, work as part of a team, and stay committed even when things didn’t go as planned. That shift in mindset has been incredible. It inspired him to choose business as one of his GCSE subjects, and he’s now in the top 10 of his year group. He’s even saving his pocket money to start his own small business._ 

_The most profound change has been in my son’s confidence and sense of belonging. SYLA has given him a safe space to thrive. He now sees the value of education and works hard to achieve his goals. The certificates and recognition he receives from SYLA boosts his self-esteem. Watching him grow into a focused, confident, and self-assured young man has been the greatest reward._ 

_Another workshop that stood out was on Building Resilience, which showed me how to guide Tariq in navigating challenges. Being surrounded by other parents on the same journey has also been incredibly reassuring and motivating._ 

_SYLA didn’t just help my son—it empowered me. Through their workshops like ‘Understanding School Policies and Knowing your Rights’ and ‘Admissions and Exclusions Appeals Training’, I’ve gained the confidence to stand up for my son and help other children. I’ve become an Admissions Panellist, which has been an eyeopening experience. Sitting on panels and helping parents fight for their children’s educational opportunities has been deeply rewarding._ 

_I got the opportunity offer to volunteer with SYLA as a Parent Engagement Officer. I love communicating with parents and receiving their feedback and helping make a difference in their family lives. Volunteering with SYLA also gives me experience and strengthens my confidence and self-esteem._ 

_I am eternally grateful for the impact SYLA has had on both our lives._ 

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## **ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS** 

## **School Partners** 

Ark Walworth Academy Haberdashers Borough Academy St Francis RC Primary School 

## **Delivery Partners** 

Elite Evolution Leap Confronting Conflict Royal National Children’s Springboard Foundation Team Up 

## **Founders** 

Patricia Walker Andy Walker 

## **Funders** 

Alan & Babette Sainsbury Trust Drapers Charitable Fund Ironmongers Company Launderers Company National Lottery Community Fund The Haberdashers’ Foundation Peter Minet Trust Polus Capital St James’s Place Charitable Foundation TPG Angelo Gordan Tom ap Rhys Pryce Memorial Trust United St Saviour’s Charity 

## WE THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT IN OUR PROGRAMMES 

**Southside Young Leaders Academy** Ark Walworth Academy Shorncliffe Road www.syla.org.uk Registered charity number: 1121717