Become a Corporate Partner

Make an Impact. Inspire Your People. Change Young Lives.

Partnering with School of Hard Knocks (SOHK) gives your organisation the chance to transform young lives while strengthening your purpose, culture, and social impact. More than CSR, this is leadership with heart, action, and long‑term commitment.

Backing Young People When It Matters Most

Across 29 schools in England, Scotland and Wales, we work with young people facing some of the biggest barriers to success in education. Through our 3Cs Framework - Confidence, Connection and Control - and a programme that combines 1‑to‑1 mentoring, group personal development and rugby, we help pupils rebuild trust, self-belief and hope in their futures.

Impact That Moves the Needle

Last academic year:

90% felt more confident
82% were more engaged in school
78% built stronger relationships
Thousands of hours of personalised mentoring delivered

Beyond statistics, these insights represent young people who feel noticed, supported, and capable again.

Why Partner With Us?

When you partner with SOHK, you’re investing in stronger communities and a stronger business.

Your support helps young people:

rediscover confidence
feel connected and valued
take ownership of their learning
stay engaged with school and opportunity

At the same time, your organisation gains a partnership rooted in purpose, authenticity and measurable impact.

“Supporting School of Hard Knocks allows us to make a meaningful difference for the next generation, giving them the opportunity to reach their full potential.” — Chris Webb, Founding Director, Firethorn

What Your Business Gains

A partnership with SOHK brings deep value to your team and brand:

Stronger ESG and social value credentials
Engaging staff experiences — volunteering, events, team challenges
Authentic purpose‑led culture your people feel proud of
Brand visibility and storytelling opportunities
Connection to a national charity tackling a critical social issue

Your partnership with School Of Hard Knocks will drive real, measurable change.

Become part of a community of businesses committed to making sure no young person is left behind in education.

Join the SOHK Corporate Partner Network

As a partner, you’ll receive:

Long‑term, high‑impact social investment opportunities
Regular impact reports showcasing the difference you’re making
Invitations to partner events and networking moments
Access to unique engagement experiences across our programmes and rugby network

Together, we can help more young people move from struggle to strength.

CAN YOUR ORGANISATION HELP US?

We would love the opportunity to discuss a partnership with your organisation. Please contact our Francesca Keynton for more information.

Latest

When Confidence Clicks: Jane’s Journey

SOHK participant Jane lives with mild hearing loss in both ears. A setting like SOHK made her nervous at first - but then Jane discovered her own passion, power, and persistence - and it's paying off every single session.
To The Nines: Interview with Rhea Clarke

We interview Scottish Rugby player Rhea Clarke about what rugby has meant to her and about what charities like School Of Hard Knocks (SOHK) mean for young players today.
A SLICE OF SIX NATIONS - SCOTLAND v IRELAND

Join the School of Hard Knocks charity for a thrilling Six Nations screening of the Scotland v Ireland Women's match, a complimentary welcome drink - beer, prosecco, or soft drink - plus free-flowing pizza throughout the game. All proceeds go to SOHK's life-changing work!
Testing Rugby Skills at Scotland Mini-Festival

In March 2026, we held our Scotland East and West Mini Rugby Tournaments - events which help our students put what they've learned into practice.

About Us

SOHK's mission is to empower children to realise their full potential. We envision is a society where every young person has an equal opportunity to succeed.
SOHK Schools Programme

The SOHK Schools Programme combines rugby sessions, 1-2-1 mentoring, and group discussions delivered by a consistent team of experts dedicated to supporting a young person's growth and potential.
Ken Cowen - Founder & CEO
Our History

School Of Hard Knocks (SOHK) was set up by Ken Cowen in 2009 and established as a not-for-profit organisation in 2012. Initially set up to help individuals find and sustain employment, SOHK has developed significantly over the years in order to adapt to society's ever-changing landscape.
Become a regular giver

Become a Friend of SOHK and help change lives for the better. We support empower vulnerable children so they can create a positive future, but we need your support. Please donate just £3 per month and help us change the game.
Donate today

SOHK delivers life-changing schools programmes for secondary school-age young people across the UK. By fostering an environment of genuine acceptance, and physical activity, group and one-to-one support sessions, SOHK enables participants to find meaning and purpose in life. As a charity, we depend on generous donations to support our mission and extend our reach to young people whose lives can be transformed by our programmes.
Rosa Innes - Head of Partnerships, Scotland
Policies and reports

Policies and reports
Our Psychology

All of School Of Hard Knocks (SOHK) activities are underpinned by 'the 3Cs'. This framework was originally developed by Dr. Chris Harwood and Dr. Karl Steptoe as a coaching methodology for youth football that incorporated life skills development. Over the years, School Of Hard Knocks has drawn on this evidence-based practice and applied it to SOHK Programmes. The 3Cs seek to improve an individual's confidence, control, and connection.
Impact and statistics