London boxing programmes boosts students’ wellbeing

Students at Capital City College (CCC) have a new opportunity to test themselves by entering the boxing ring at our Holloway and Finsbury Park centres. 

One great aspect about student life at CCC are the enrichment programmes on offer. From clubs and workshops, to sports programmes, one of the more physically challenging activities they can do is boxing, through our partnership with Brothers Through Boxing (BTB) and Sisters Through Boxing (STB).

Delivered in partnership with the charity Boxing Futures, these free, six-month programmes, held at Finsbury Park and Holloway centres, offer a blend of therapeutic discussion and non-contact boxing for young people aged 16 to 25.

Each weekly two-hour session explores important life topics, including building healthy relationships, self-identity (“Who am I?”), understanding mental health versus mental well-being, promoting physical health, developing essential life skills, and setting hopes, dreams, and goals. The curriculum ensures participants are equipped with tools to navigate life’s challenges and build a positive future. 

One student from the Angel centre said: “As a member of the BTB programme, I can say it has been fantastic, especially for beginners to boxing and those looking to stay active in a supportive environment. The coaches, along with Ben, are respectful and caring. It’s more than just boxing – it’s a welcoming community with a safe space where you can exercise, have fun, and improve your mental health.” 

A recent highlight was a fully-funded group trip to the O2 Arena in North Greenwich. Students from all three centres came together to visit Activate, a virtual games centre where they competed in teams and earned points and prizes. The day concluded with a group meal at Jimmy’s World Grill – a chance to break fast for those observing Ramadan and to celebrate the sense of unity and achievement that the programmes have nurtured.

A Holloway student taking part in STB added: “The atmosphere and people are all very welcoming, making participation more enjoyable. The coaches and Ben have been a great support to all students and are very respectful. The diversity in the programme brings different experiences which help us learn and work together as a team. This programme is very useful and it is important that it continues.” 

Ben Holdaway, Student Engagement Officer (Finsbury Park), said: “It has been fantastic to continue and expand our partnership with Boxing Futures. They have a great ability to engage, support and coach young people. The sessions have helped learners to learn boxing techniques, realise off some steam, grow in confidence and build bonds between each other.  

“The sessions and the learners are going from strength to strength. Being able to offer a fully funded trip to the learners through the programme was the icing on the cake. The learners had a great time and really did themselves credit. I look forward to future programmes and growing our partnership with Boxing Futures. The BTB and STB programmes have been significant and welcomed additions to our enrichment programme at Capital City College.” 

Want to try boxing at our Holloway or Finsbury Park centres? If you are a CCC student interested in taking part in clubs and societies, workshops or events, please contact the Enrichment Officer at your centre. 

Share!