London Boxing Academy Community Project

In October 2006 we started working in an exciting partnership with the London Boxing Academy (LBA) in Tottenham to provide academic lessons for youths who have been excluded from the educational system.

The LBA was founded in 2000 by Chris Hall and Simon Marcus. They initially had an informal arrangement whereby the coaches would work with youths, who just wandered into the gym, to channel their aggression and teach them new skills. Boxing is extremely effective in changing the negative attitudes as it emphasises respect, discipline and commitment. Most of the youths experienced a complete turn around in behaviour so the LBA began to look into expanding the project into a more permanent, structured course.

Many of the students have experienced a devastating drug and knife culture and have very limited skills. Some have served time in prison and repeatedly get into trouble with the police. In these circumstances, there is little chance of them integrating into mainstream society or making a positive contribution to their community. However, at the LBA the students are motivated by the opportunity to learn boxing skills alongside their academic studies. We are already seeing positive results from our English and maths lessons. The project will vastly improve their future prospects in terms of employment and everyday social interaction.

The London Boxing Academy Community Project is supported by the Tom ap Rhys Pryce Memorial Trust.

Further details at the Civitas website.