No ceiling on abilities

Lapwing helps young people with complex barriers to learning to realise and achieve their potential. This is based on the belief that there is no ceiling on abilities, and that the capacity for learning should be continually developed. At present, the youngest student is 14 and the oldest 25, and some of the conditions relating to complex barriers to learning include autism, aspergers/ASD, learning difficulties, mental illness and debilitating illnesses. Founded in 2006, Lapwing has steadily worked to develop partnerships with local businesses, colleges and training providers to create bespoke courses and programmes for students, offering them the chance to progress into accredited courses and achieving outstanding results.

A mascot for everyone

Originally known as “The DTU Improving Choices Programme” we worked with the team to review its name and brand strategy and took an active role in helping to transform the organisation. Our work was timely in helping to define their values, vision and brand strategy, as well as developing a distinctive name and characterful visual style. The Lapwing mascot is incredibly popular with students and the team, who adopted it straight away as a true reflection their activities and the outlook of the organisation.

The results

Since developing the brand and positioning, Lapwing has moved away from local authority funding, and is now an independent educational charity in the third sector. Attracting Trustees and sponsors is ongoing, and made easier by the strong point of view and clarity of positioning within the organisation. Its point of difference and idiosyncratic presence in the often bureaucratic world of further education and learning disability, has given them a distinctive voice to reach their different audiences. Lapwing are now poised to produce their very first Lapwing Prospectus to reach even more students, families, educational bodies and government departments.