Spectra Connect

Spectra is a purpose-driven company led by personnel who have delivered on key national educational programmes since 2002. In 2014, after working with senior leaders at Leeds Children's Services in which we recognised the value of restorative practice, we launched a bespoke residential service for looked-after children with complex needs, who were making the transition to independence. Working around the clock with our young people gave us a keen insight into their lives. We realised that growing up in care created circumstances that required a special set of responses, which had to be tailored and specific to the needs of the individual. Our expertise in mentoring, coaching and restorative practice has led the company to be included on a preferred provider framework for supported accommodation. Alongside supported accommodation, Spectra has simultaneously expanded its mentoring and training services to schools in and around the West Midlands. Spectra has collaborated with the University of Wolverhampton to develop the Aspire to University (A2U) programme. A2U is designed exclusively for looked-after children and includes a strong mentoring component. In 2017, A2U was commended at the NEON awards for widening access to higher education. Through our commitment to supporting looked-after children and offering a better deal for care-leavers, Spectra now works with stakeholders from the private and public sectors to deliver the Care Leaver Covenant for the Department for Education.