The Persimmon Charitable Foundation is donating £100,000 over three years to the project in Chapelfields, York.

The community-embedded learning centre, known as The Place, is a response to the educational inequalities experienced by young people from some of the most disadvantaged areas in York.

Led by the University of York, in partnership with Westfield Primary Community School and York High School, the centre is open Monday to Friday, 50 weeks of the year. It provides a safe space for children and young people to learn and grow, empowering them to reach their potential and access fulfilling lifelong careers. It does this through a range of events and activities, which include academic and wellbeing support programmes, with visits to local employers, the university campus and heritage sites around the city, as well as dedicated time to support adults in the community.

The Place opened its doors at the end of October 2023. The Foundation is donating £100,000 towards the cost of the project over three years, from December 2023 to December 2025.

Anthony Vigor, Chair of the Trustees at the Persimmon Foundation said, “The Persimmon Foundation is delighted to be able to help The Place fulfil its mission as an inspirational learning centre, supporting young people in Chapelfields to achieve their potential. We wish it every success.”

Jo Young, The Place Centre Manager, said: “Although York is an affluent city, not many people realise that the city is one of just six local authorities nationally in which, at the end of primary school, disadvantaged students are over a year behind their more affluent peers.

“We are determined to address this inequity through a vibrant and inspiring programme of activity and opportunity, which is carefully evaluated and designed to meet the aims.”