Setting Up A Community

Do you dream of creating a space where young people can take ownership of their learning, grow in confidence, and be supported by a community that believes in them?

At SML Alliance, we are helping people set up their own Self Managed Learning communities - building on over two decades of experience and a growing network across the UK.

Our Experience

For 24 years, the SML College in Brighton pioneered Self Managed Learning with hundreds of young people and families. From this foundation, we launched SML Alliance, with the vision of supporting others to establish their own communities.

Today, SML communities are already thriving in Liverpool and Oxford - and Sheffield is about to launch - each one unique to its local area. We have tested the approach of supporting others to develop SML Communities in these contexts and proved that it works. 

What You’ll Receive

When you join the SML Alliance we will walk alongside you, offering the knowledge, tools and support to get your community off the ground and flourishing.

Here’s what we can provide:

  • Development in SML principles and practice – for you and your team, drawing on our decades of leadership in the field.
  • Mentoring and ongoing coaching – tailored advice to help you with both the philosophy and the practicalities of running a community.
  • Practical help with legal and governance structures – including guidance on setting up as a Community Interest Company (CIC)
  • Use of the SML Alliance brand and resources – including logo, templates, guides, videos, and articles.
  • Staffing support – help with staff selection, induction and professional development.
  • Marketing support – access to templates, amplification through our channels, and a presence on the SML Alliance website.
  • A network of peers – connect with other community leaders through our community of practice.
  • Responsive support – we’re available for queries and guidance whenever you need it.

How It Works

We believe money should not be a barrier to creating opportunities for young people. That’s why:

  • There is no upfront fee to set up your community.
  • We provide the development and support for free to get you started.
  • Once your community begins generating revenue, you contribute a small percentage of turnover back to the Alliance. This helps sustain the wider network and ensures we can keep supporting you and others. Note that we are a non-profit organisation but we do need to earn enough money to keep the work going.

Why Join the Alliance?

Starting a community is a big step - but by joining the SML Alliance, you become part of a movement that:

  • Is grounded in decades of lived experience with young people, schools and organisations.
  • Offers practical, hands-on support.
  • Gives you the credibility of a recognised name in Self Managed Learning.
  • Connects you with others across the UK working towards the same vision.
  • Provides the unique opportunity to be mentored by Dr Ian Cunningham, the founder and pioneer of Self Managed Learning, who first developed the approach in the 1970s.

Together, we can create spaces where more young people take charge of their learning and thrive.

Interested in starting your own SML community?

Get in touch today to explore what’s possible.