VIP Education has been announced as a finalist for the Start-Up & Step-Up Business Award at the 2026 Staffordshire Chambers Business Awards, sponsored by Staffordshire County Council.

Founded just ten months ago, VIP Education has already built a 47-strong team and established itself as a credible specialist provider in one of the most pressured corners of public services. The organisation delivers small-group alternative provision for children and young people with SEND and SEMH needs who cannot thrive in mainstream settings, combining academic delivery with emotional coaching, life skills and reintegration planning.

The gap VIP was founded to fill is real and well-documented. Rising exclusions, long waiting lists and a shortage of flexible provision created the conditions, and VIP responded with a dual model pairing direct pupil placements with safeguarding consultancy, education welfare support and specialist training for schools and local authorities. Repeat commissioning, strong retention rates and a larger specialist site in development reflect an organisation that has moved quickly from launch to trusted partner, with projected turnover approaching £712,000.

Stuart Elford, Chief Executive of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, said: “VIP Education has identified one of the most pressing gaps in our education system and moved with real purpose to fill it. Ten months in, with a team of 47 and projected turnover approaching £712,000, this is an organisation that is already making a difference to some of the most vulnerable young people in Staffordshire. We are proud to have them as a finalist and look forward to seeing what comes next.”

The winners will be revealed at a gala awards ceremony at Uttoxeter Racecourse on Thursday 9 July 2026, followed by The After Party, a late-night celebration for finalists, winners and partners.

To find out more about the 2026 Staffordshire Chambers Business Awards, visit staffordshirechambers.co.uk/awards.