Active Essex Foundation (AEF) free SMART programmes

Published: 21 September 2026

Active Essex Foundation (AEF) free SMART programmes (Girls Inspired, Boys Inspired, BoxSmart and SportSmart) provide early intervention support for young people aged 11 to 24 who face social, emotional, behavioural or environmental challenges that may affect their wellbeing, engagement and future opportunities.  

We are pleased to announce the launch of our new dedicated AEF SMART webpage: SMART Courses | Active Essex Foundation.

This new resource has been created to help agencies, community organisations, and stakeholders gain a better understanding of the SMART programme and the opportunities it provides for young people.

All SMART courses are ASDAN accredited, ensuring that every young person aged 11 to 24 who participates not only develops valuable skills, knowledge, and understanding across key learning areas, but also achieves a nationally recognised qualification that can support their future education, employment, and career aspirations.

SMART courses can be tailored to meet the needs of specific audiences and local priorities, including a focus on NEET young people, reducing youth anti-social behaviour, crime prevention, exploitation awareness, hidden harms, online safety and social media, Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), and misogyny.

In addition, every SMART course incorporates opportunities for volunteering and community engagement, creating clear pathways for ongoing participation, personal development, and long-term support within local communities.

AEF SMART Courses

AEF Boxsmart