About Us
Base Camp was founded in 2019 by Leon Bernasconi, who recognized the need for a specialized Alternative Provision for children who struggled in traditional learning environments. Drawing inspiration from military training and teamwork, we have designed a comprehensive curriculum that fosters discipline, resilience, and camaraderie. Our dedicated team of trainers, with backgrounds in both education and military training, are passionate about helping students turn their lives around.
Our Program:
At Base Camp, we believe that every child deserves a chance to succeed. Our unique program combines the best aspects of military training and teamwork with a strong emphasis on discipline. Through daily sessions, we create a structured environment that allows students to:
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Reset: We help students overcome previous educational setbacks and build a positive mindset.
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Train: Our engaging curriculum focuses on military themed activities, physical fitness, and life skills to prepare students for a brighter future.
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Engage: We emphasize teamwork, trust, and communication as students collaborate on practical exercises and problem-solving tasks.
Our Approach:
Our professional, alternative approach ensures that students receive the support they need to thrive in a safe and nurturing environment. We carefully monitor each child's progress and tailor our teaching methods to meet their individual needs. This personalized approach allows us to effectively address the unique challenges faced by each student and provide the tools they need to succeed.
The Team
Leon
Leon joined the army at 16 and served for 10 years, where he took part in a range of operations, including the first Gulf War with the Joint Helicopter Support Unit.
During his time in the military, he also trained in Arctic Warfare with ACE Mobile Force and completed tours in Northern Ireland and Bosnia.
He finished his army career as a Physical Training Instructor (PTI) before transitioning to work in the private education sector. Leon is also NEBOSH qualified in health and safety.
In addition to his professional career, Leon has been a dedicated foster carer for the past 13 years, providing support and care to children in need.
Louise
Louise served in the Royal Logistics Corps as a class 1 driver/physical Training Instructor. She did a tour of Bosnia and since leaving the Armed Forces has worked within the recruitment industry.
Louise has been a foster carer for 13 years looking after more than 20 children. She has extensive experience of working with local authorities and multi-agencies.
Furthermore, she has volunteered as the safeguarding governor at a local high-school for over 7 years, gaining a high understanding of safeguarding within education.
Base Camp Lowestoft
Meet the Team
Leon joined the army at 16 and served for 10 years, where he took part in a range of operations, including the first Gulf War with the Joint Helicopter Support Unit.
During his time in the military, he also trained in Arctic Warfare with ACE Mobile Force and completed tours in Northern Ireland and Bosnia.
He finished his army career as a Physical Training Instructor (PTI) before transitioning to work in the private education sector. Leon is also NEBOSH qualified in health and safety.
In addition to his professional career, Leon has been a dedicated foster carer for the past 13 years, providing support and care to children in need.
Louise served in the Royal Logistics Corps as a class 1 driver/physical Training Instructor. She did a tour of Bosnia and since leaving the Armed Forces has worked within the recruitment industry.
Louise has been a foster carer for 13 years looking after more than 20 children. She has extensive experience of working with local authorities and multi-agencies.
Furthermore, she has volunteered as the safeguarding governor at a local high-school for over 7 years, gaining a high understanding of safeguarding within education.
Gaz joined the British Army at 16, serving 23 years with tours in the Gulf War, Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan. As a Squadron Sergeant Major, his unit performed Public Duties at Buckingham Palace in 2007. He retired in 2011 as a Warrant Officer Class One.
After the Army, Gaz spent five years with Suffolk Constabulary, working as a uniformed officer and investigator. He also taught Police and Army Cadets as an instructor.
Leon
Bernasconi
Leon joined the army at 16 and served for 10 years, where he took part in a range of operations, including the first Gulf War with the Joint Helicopter Support Unit.
During his time in the military, he also trained in Arctic Warfare with ACE Mobile Force and completed tours in Northern Ireland and Bosnia.
He finished his army career as a Physical Training Instructor (PTI) before transitioning to work in the private education sector. Leon is also NEBOSH qualified in health and safety.
In addition to his professional career, Leon has been a dedicated foster carer for the past 13 years, providing support and care to children in need.
Louise
Bernasconi
Louise served in the Royal Logistics Corps as a class 1 driver/physical Training Instructor. She did a tour of Bosnia and since leaving the Armed Forces has worked within the recruitment industry.
Louise has been a foster carer for 13 years looking after more than 20 children. She has extensive experience of working with local authorities and multi-agencies.
Furthermore, she has volunteered as the safeguarding governor at a local high-school for over 7 years, gaining a high understanding of safeguarding within education.