Let Teachers SHINE winner 2025: Richard McNicholas – United Learning x Boys’ Impact
A new initiative is soon to be launched at Barnsley Academy to further support boys at the school in developing positive self-identity and successfully forging a pathway to their future career of choice.
The project, which is led by Richard McNicholas, Vice Principal at Barnsley Academy, has been developed by the United Learning group of schools and Boys’ Impact, a network of practitioners aiming to improve the attainment of young men from disadvantaged backgrounds and contexts.
The initiative, which centres on how boys can take a more active role in their own development to effectively reach their goals, has received £25,000 from Let Teachers SHINE, a funding competition run by education charity SHINE.
Research shows that, across the country, there are a variety of issues that can negatively impact on the behaviour, confidence and self-identity of young men, including mistrust of school, poverty, poor mental health and stereotypes of masculinity. This project seeks to address some of these issues affecting young men nationally, providing students at the academy with the knowledge, tools and understanding they need to not only perform well in the classroom but to take their chosen next steps beyond school.
The project uses principles from the ‘Taking Boys Seriously’ research project conducted by Ulster University. It is focused on four key areas: building relationships centred on trust and respect, connecting students with opportunities outside the classroom, challenging assumptions around masculine identity, and valuing the voice of young men in the community.
Richard said: “I’m excited about the opportunities this funding will bring, enabling us to expand and improve on all the work we are already doing to support our young people and successfully address the challenges some of our boys may be facing.
“We want to make sure all our boys understand the value and importance of their education, set high aspirations for themselves, and see a clear pathway for their future.
“This award from SHINE really validates our work and efforts to date and motivates us all to keep making a positive difference.”