Scaling social mobility in the West Midlands
Why collaborative philanthropy is the future
The “Inspiring Futures” initiative, led by The Rigby Foundation, isn’t just a grant – it’s a ground-breaking £3 million blueprint for place-based change. As a key partner in this nine-charity consortium, rising to 11 next academic year, Action Tutoring is proving how strategic, multi-year investment can transform educational outcomes in the UK’s highest-poverty regions.
The power of place-based collaboration
Poverty in the West Midlands is a complex challenge; the Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s 2025 report highlights that the region faces the UK’s highest poverty rate at 27%. Tackling this requires more than isolated interventions.
Through the Inspiring Futures programme, Action Tutoring works alongside eight other charity partners to support the holistic needs of pupils in Birmingham.
Proven impact: beyond the numbers
Over the course of the partnership, Action Tutoring will be supporting 480 pupils in maths and English across the West Midlands, currently targeting the critical transition points of Year 7 and the high-stakes environment of Year 10 in Year 11 of the partnership.
Investment in this programme at partner schools like STAR Small Heath Leadership Academy is already delivering a measurable “confidence dividend.” During a recent site visit, representatives from The Rigby Foundation witnessed the “palpable intensity” of the classroom – a direct result of pairing trained volunteer tutors with pupils who have the drive to succeed, but lack the resources of their wealthier peers.
“Entering the classroom, the intensity of the pupils’ focus was palpable. What stood out most was the sense of genuine connections; tutors who clearly care deeply and pupils who are keen to grow.”
Jemima Waltho, The Rigby Foundation Partnerships Manager
A call to action for Foundations: why partner with Action Tutoring?
For foundations looking to drive systemic change, Action Tutoring offers a scalable model that combines:
- Evidence-backed delivery: Our rigorous annual analysis ensures that every pound invested is backed by the numbers.
- Operational excellence: As seen at STAR Small Heath, our Programme Coordinators manage the logistics, allowing school leaders to focus on teaching while we focus on closing the attainment gap.
- Data transparency: We provide reporting on pupil progress and engagement, giving our foundation partners a clear view of their social ROI.
“I was very anxious and reserved at the start, but my tutor helped me come out of my shell and build my confidence. I really connected with how he explained things to me.”
Pupil at partner programme
Following our success in Birmingham, we are seeking partners to replicate this collaborative model in other areas across the country. Contact our Head of Philanthropy, Hannah O’Neill (hannahoneill@actiontutoring.org.uk), for more information about partnering with us, or discover more about our work:
