raef
introduction
Ramsgate Active Education Foundation is a dedicated not-for-profit organisation committed to empowering local communities through sport, education, and social inclusion. Our mission is to create opportunities for individuals of all ages and backgrounds by providing access to high-quality facilities, structured programmes, and meaningful engagement initiatives.
trust in us
mission
We believe that physical activity enhances academic success, mental well-being, and social development, forming a crucial part of an individual’s lifelong growth. Our work is centered around ensuring that children, families, and vulnerable individuals can access the support and opportunities they need to thrive.
supporting mdna
WALK WITH RONNIE
One of our most impactful community initiatives this year was the Walk with Ronnie fundraiser, held to support the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA). The event brought together a large group of supporters who walked in solidarity, raising vital funds and awareness for those affected by motor neurone disease.
SUPPORTING MNDA
The walk was a testament to the power of community, showcasing the compassion and unity of our supporters. Funds raised during the event will go directly towards research, care, and support services for individuals and families affected by MNDA. We are incredibly proud to have played a part in this meaningful cause and remain committed to using our platform to support health-related charities and initiatives.
2024/25
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
Over the past year, Ramsgate Active Education Foundation has expanded its impact across various community sectors, delivering projects that make a tangible difference to the lives of local residents.
SPORTS
1,200+ children and young people engaged in sports, education, and mentoring programmes.
HAF PROGRAMME
Over 500 children participated in our Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) programme, providing structured activities, meals, and social engagement opportunities.
SUPPORTING FAMILIES
30,000+ hot meals provided to children and families in need, supporting food security and well-being.
FREE FACILITY ACCESS
500+ hours of free facility access granted to schools and community groups to encourage participation in physical activity.
VOLUNTEERS
100+ volunteers engaged in delivering community programmes, mentoring young people, and supporting social initiatives.
CHARITIES
£150,000 raised for local charities and community projects, funding everything from defibrillator installations to mental health support initiatives.
ASPIRATION
400 Children on our HAF programme experienced helicopter rides around Thanet, in partnership with Helix AV and Manston Airport, inspiring young minds by creating real aspirations and showing them new possibilities.
LEARNING EXPERIENCES
Expanded HAF programme activities, including music, cookery sessions, arts and crafts, forest school, and free play, providing children with hands-on learning experiences that build confidence, creativity, and teamwork.
HEALTHY
Nutritional education and meal preparation, teaching children about healthy eating, budgeting, and life skills through structured cooking sessions.
MENTAL WELLBEING
Mental well-being and social development, encouraging children to express themselves, build confidence, and develop friendships through arts and crafts, free play, and nature-based activities.
ENGAGEMENT
Parent & Guardian Engagement, with family-focused sessions designed to strengthen family bonds and educate guardians on child development and healthy lifestyles.
ACCESSIBILITY
Diversity & Inclusion Efforts, ensuring accessibility for children with additional needs, with trained staff supporting SEN (Special Educational Needs) children throughout all activities.
inspire ASPIRATIONS
Through an incredible partnership with Helix AV and Manston Airport, we provided helicopter rides for children in our HAF programme. This once-in-a-lifetime experience allowed children to see their local area from a completely new perspective, broadening their horizons and inspiring dreams beyond their usual surroundings. By exposing them to new experiences, we aim to raise aspirations, boost confidence, and show them the endless possibilities available in their futures.
digital access
Ensuring children and families have access to technology is a core part of our commitment to education and equal opportunities.
This year, we have:
• Distributed laptops and digital resources to children who lack access to essential technology at home.
• Provided training sessions to help young people and families develop digital skills for education and employment.
• Worked closely with local schools to support digital inclusion, ensuring children can complete homework and access online learning materials.
programmes
Bikeability Programme:
Teaching Children to Ride
Through our partnership with the Bikeability Scheme, we have successfully taught 20 children to ride bikes from scratch. By providing structured cycling lessons in a safe environment, we aim to build children’s confidence, independence, and physical fitness while encouraging a lifelong love for cycling. This initiative has also helped improve road safety awareness, ensuring that young people can navigate their surroundings safely.
swimming Programme:
Teaching water confidence
We have also introduced a swimming programme, giving 20 children the opportunity to learn to swim from scratch. Through dedicated sessions with trained instructors, children have developed essential water safety skills, increased their confidence in the water, and learned a crucial life skill that can benefit them throughout their lives. This initiative aligns with our commitment to providing accessible physical activity opportunities that promote well-being and personal development.
football
REFEREE TRAINING AND EMPLOYMENT PROGRAMME
As part of our commitment to providing opportunities for young people, we have trained and employed nearly 30 local teenagers as referees. This initiative not only supports grassroots football but also equips young individuals with leadership, communication, and decision-making skills that will benefit them in future careers. By offering practical work experience and financial independence, this programme fosters responsibility and confidence among local youth.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND GROWTH
Ramsgate Active Education Foundation is proud to be one of Kent’s largest facilitators of community-driven sports, education, and health initiatives. We continue to build strong relationships with local schools, businesses, and service providers to maximise our outreach and deliver effective programmes.
INCLUSIVE SPORT PARTNERSHIPS: SEN FOOTBALL PROGRAMME
In partnership with Inclusive Sport, we are delivering SEN football sessions to provide children and young people with additional needs the opportunity to engage in structured, supportive, and fun football activities. These sessions focus on developing motor skills, teamwork, and confidence, ensuring that every participant, regardless of ability, can enjoy and benefit from the game in a fully inclusive environment. This initiative aligns with our commitment to making sports accessible to all members of our community.
KEEPING OUR COMMUNITY ACTIVE
We are proud to manage and maintain Dane Park, Hartsdown Park, St Luke’s, Southwood Stadium, and Garlinge Rec, ensuring these vital spaces remain accessible for the local community. These facilities serve as key hubs for sports, recreation, and community events, helping to keep people of all ages active and engaged. Our work ensures that these locations continue to offer high-quality environments for grassroots football, physical activity, and social interaction.
NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH RAMSGATE ATHLETIC: A PATHWAY FOR YOUTH TO SENIOR FOOTBALL
In 2024, we established an exciting new relationship with Ramsgate Athletic, a young and ambitious club that has quickly made a name for itself in local football., further strengthening our commitment to developing pathways for young players into senior football. Ramsgate Athletic moved to Southwood Stadium, strengthening ties with our Foundation and providing a clear pathway for young players to progress into senior football., aligning their ambitions with our vision for community-led football development.
The team, which is made up almost entirely of 16-year-olds, has been making waves in the league, currently standing as the division’s top scorers with over 52 goals in the season. Their attacking style and fearless approach have drawn widespread attention, including praise from opposition clubs for their exciting playstyle and determination., managed by Ramsgate FC U16 coaches Mark Buckingham and Jimmy Egan to help bridge the gap between youth and senior football. His vision aligns with our mission to create sustainable senior football opportunities for local young players, providing them with a competitive yet supportive environment to develop their skills. Their Chairman, Steve Rollings, a passionate advocate for youth development,, is passionate about youth development and wanted to work with our charity to help create senior football opportunities for local young players, Their performances have captured widespread attention, with media outlets such as Brixton Buzz noting that ‘Peckham Town had been torn apart by a team of schoolboys.’ This recognition highlights not only the incredible talent of these young players but also the effectiveness of our youth-to-senior football development model.
This partnership is a testament to the success of our youth initiatives, ensuring that talented young footballers in Ramsgate have a direct pathway into senior football while staying rooted in their local community.
expanding our reach
Holiday Activity & Food (HAF) Programme:
Continuing to provide free, structured activities and meals during school holidays, with an increased focus on supporting children with additional needs.
Active Families Initiative:
Encouraging family participation in sports, promoting physical activity as a shared experience.
Education & Skills Development:
Expanding our support for young people through after-school clubs, mentoring programmes, and vocational training.
Inclusive Sports Programmes:
Further developing walking football, disability-friendly sports sessions, and fitness classes for older adults to ensure everyone has an opportunity to engage in physical activity.
Future Plans for Facilities & Infrastructure: Working with Councils & Grant Providers
Our commitment to providing first-class facilities remains at the heart of our work. Looking ahead, we are actively working with Thanet District Council, grant providers, and local stakeholders to develop and enhance infrastructure. Our aim is to secure funding and expand community sports and educational spaces, ensuring greater access to safe, high-quality environments for learning, sports, and community engagement.
funding:
Work with funding bodies to develop new multi-sport areas, accommodating a wider range of activities and increasing participation in community sports.
partnerships:
Partner with local authorities and funders to upgrade and expand classroom spaces, enhancing digital learning, vocational training, and personal development opportunities.
collaboration:
Collaborate with accessibility organisations to enhance facilities, ensuring all individuals, including those with disabilities, can fully participate in community activities.
looking ahead: vision for 2025 & beyond
Ramsgate Active Education Foundation is dedicated to further expanding its reach and deepening its impact. Over the next year, we aim to:
ADDITIONAL FUNDING
Secure additional funding to enhance community sports and education projects.
new partnerships:
Develop new partnerships with local businesses, schools, and organisations to increase programme accessibility.
expanding reach
Expand the HAF programme to reach even more children, with a focus on tailored support for vulnerable groups.
INVESTING INITIATIVES
Continue investing in inclusive sports initiatives to encourage participation across all demographics.