Scarborough Teenager Turns Life Around Through Free Holiday Programme

A fourteen-year-old from Scarborough who was expelled from school has transformed his life and won an international martial arts medal after joining a free holiday activity scheme.

A fourteen-year-old from Scarborough has transformed his life, moving from school exclusion to international sporting success, thanks to a local holiday activity programme.

When Warren Dykes first decided to try training in martial arts, he was going through a difficult period. He had been expelled from school and was struggling with instability at home. However, he was introduced to Desapline Martial Arts in Scarborough through the FEAST activity programme, which is run by North Yorkshire Council.

Warren said:

"My behaviour was just all over the place. Getting in trouble, starting fights - I was just misbehaving in general."

The teenager signed up for classes at Desapline through the FEAST scheme, North Yorkshire’s Holiday Activities and Food programme. The initiative offers fully-funded activities alongside nutritious food for eligible children and young people during the school holidays.

Andy Desa, who runs the Scarborough martial arts centre, remembered being warned before the teenager even arrived for his first session.

Mr Desa said:

"He was described as a bit of a ‘problem child’. But he came in and he was good as gold. He didn’t cause any trouble, didn’t lash out, didn’t fall out with anyone."

Warren returned the following day and continued to prove himself as a model pupil. Over time, he kept attending, gradually building his confidence and settling into the structure of the training. He used martial arts as a way to manage his emotions and focus his energy.

This consistency translated into significant progress. Warren moved through his gradings, began entering competitions, and started taking his training seriously. He has since competed internationally, winning multiple medals, including a silver at a world championship in Hungary.

Warren said:

"I never expected to get this far."

Alongside his competitive success, Warren began re-engaging with his education. Mr Desa worked with school staff to share what he was observing at the martial arts centre and what strategies helped the teenager succeed.

With a fresh start at Norton College, Warren was able to settle more successfully. Staff at the school recognised the importance of structure, respect, and consistency in his development. He has now come full circle and volunteers at sessions, helping younger children who attend through the FEAST programme.

Warren said:

"If I didn’t start this, I would just still be in my bedroom gaming."

For many families, the FEAST programme removes financial barriers and provides new experiences. Bookings for this summer’s activities go live today, June 22.

Mr Desa believes the opportunity Warren had has created a wider ripple effect.

Mr Desa said:

"The programme brings in children who might not otherwise have access to structured activities, allowing clubs like Desapline to support them over time. FEAST helps us get kids that we wouldn’t normally see walk through the door.

You see them grow. They come in unsure and then later they’re the ones helping the next group."

North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for corporate services, Councillor Heather Phillips, noted the broader value of the scheme.

Councillor Phillips said:

"Warren’s journey shows exactly what programmes like FEAST can mean for families across North Yorkshire.

A single opportunity during the school holidays gave him structure, confidence and a sense of belonging. Stories like Warren’s demonstrate how holiday activities can open doors, remove barriers and give children the chance to thrive in ways that stay with them long after the summer ends."

The FEAST holiday programme is open to children aged between five and sixteen, with fully-funded places available for those who receive benefits-related free school meals. Activities include sports, outdoor adventures, computer programming, dance, and animal care.

The strategic director of FEAST, Laura Ward, highlighted the dedication of local providers.

Laura Ward said:

"FEAST not only provides children and young people with nutritious food and fun and engaging activities, it enables them to make new friends and gain social skills and experience ready for new opportunities.

Through FEAST Warren found something that worked for him and he’s now helping the next group of young people find their place too. I would also like to pay tribute to the dedication of local activity providers, schools, and communities who work together to make these holiday activities as enjoyable and rewarding as possible."

Further details and bookings can be found on the North Yorkshire Together website at https://www.northyorkshiretogether.co.uk/FEAST