Purpose-driven organisations create meaningful impact when they anchor their decisions to their core mission.

UA92, an educational institution founded by former Manchester United footballers, demonstrates how breaking down systemic barriers to higher education can transform lives. Their approach focuses on making education accessible through practical solutions like fixed timetabling, continuous assessment instead of exams, and financial support.

What makes their model powerful is how deeply their purpose permeates every aspect of their work – from hiring to decision-making – always asking "what does this mean for the students?"

Rather than having fancy but empty value statements, they use simple values like "we care" backed by consistent, dedicated action. This creates a powerful ripple effect that extends beyond individual students to families and communities.

This conversation will help you:

• Understand how purpose-driven organisations can break down barriers to higher education
• Create a stronger organisational culture by involving team members in defining simple but meaningful values
• Fcus on how you implement changes rather than just what changes you make

Episode highlights

• [00:08:58] The legacy of the Class of '92
• [00:12:40] A real purpose
• [00:15:59] The challenges UA92 faces
• [00:19:14] Success stories from graduation
• [00:22:43] When values are tested
• [00:25:13] The impact UA92 is having now
• [00:26:59] Putting values into measurableaction
• [00:31:01] What can we as leaders do today?
• [00:33:08] Ian's media recommendation
• [00:34:22] Andy's media recommendation
• [00:35:47] Takeaways from Dan and Pia

Links

• Connect with Andy via LinkedIn
• Connect with Ian via LinkedIn
• Good to Great, by Jim Collins
• Dare to Lead, by Brene Brown
• Mixtape – TV series
• Track and improve your team performance with Squadify
• Leave us a voice note