Gateways (Charity Number: 1201455)

Gateways is a UK-based nonprofit charity dedicated to supporting young Jewish people aged 14 to 25 who face significant challenges that prevent them from remaining in mainstream education. Established initially as a programme within the London Jewish Community Centre in 2013 by Laurence Field, Gateways has evolved into an independent alternative education provider offering bespoke, tailored teaching for students struggling with mental health issues, serious illnesses, social and emotional difficulties, and other personal traumas.

Mission and Purpose

Gateways believes that every young person should have the opportunity to thrive and progress, regardless of the challenges they face. The organisation specifically targets those young people who find mainstream education inaccessible due to anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and other complex needs. It provides a safe, supportive environment where students receive a broad curriculum designed around their individual interests, abilities, and needs, preparing them for life beyond education.

Educational Model and Services

Providing a unique educational offering within the UK Jewish community, Gateways combines mainstream and vocational subjects to cater to diverse learner profiles. The curriculum includes subjects such as science, maths, English, photography, IT, and hair and beauty qualifications. Students benefit from a state-of-the-art learning environment located in Hendon, which features multi-functional classrooms, a teaching kitchen, a courtyard, café, and lounge areas that foster a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere.

Gateways places strong emphasis on holistic support, offering counselling, mentoring, and one-to-one guidance throughout the students' time at the organisation. This includes practical assistance with job and college applications, CV writing, interview preparation, and access to part-time and short-term work placements. The educational approach aims to build confidence and skills that enable approximately 98% of students to graduate with qualifications and transition successfully into further education or employment.

History and Growth

Originally a social action programme hosted at JW3 for seven years, Gateways gained independent charity status in September 2023 due to increasing demand and sustained success. The organisation's growth has been supported by partnerships with bodies such as The Wohl Legacy and The Gerald and Gail Ronson Family Foundation, forming the Wohl Ronson Partnership.

Community Impact

Gateways was created in direct response to the increasing number of young Jewish individuals struggling within mainstream schools. It remains deeply rooted in and responsive to community needs, providing an essential alternative educational pathway that addresses both academic and emotional wellbeing. The charity offers a model of inclusion and progression recognized for transforming the lives of vulnerable young people who might otherwise have limited educational prospects.

Leadership and Opportunities

Lawrence Field serves as the CEO of Gateways, leading a dedicated team of teachers, professional staff, and trustees committed to making a meaningful difference every day. The charity regularly advertises vacancies for various roles, including freelance, part-time, and full-time positions, inviting those interested to contribute to its growing mission.

Gateways continues to expand its curriculum and facilities to meet the evolving needs of its students, ensuring that every young person has the chance to succeed, irrespective of their individual struggles.

[1] https://gateways.org.uk [2] https://gateways.org.uk/about-gateways/ [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5195344 [4] https://www.wohl.org.uk/project/gateways-uk/ [5] https://www.gatewaysupport.org.uk/home/