Alternative Provision success stories
We are lucky enough to work with a number of schools through our alternative provision programmes. At the farm, we work with a wide variety of pupils with various needs and abilities, and we love seeing them increase their confidence, self esteem and understanding of farm life.
Most of the pupils struggle to get on in a mainstream classroom environment, so schools opt for an outdoor classroom once or more a week.
The pupils get to work with the animals, grow and cook food, maintain & enhance the environment. Sometimes they’ll take part in whatever jobs need doing on the farm, but all the activities are tailored to what they need.
Below is a testimonial from a deputy head at one of the schools we’ve been working with over the last few months.
" As a school we are very much aware of the need to meet a child's needs holistically. When we were introduced to the idea of extending our therapy provision to include a care farm, we were eager to explore what they could offer to enhance our programme.
On our first visit we were impressed at the set up of the venue and the commitment / passion of the staff to support a range of youngsters and needs. Since working with the care farm we have witnessed the enthusiasm of the youngsters that are lucky to attend - their willingness to share their experiences with staff in school and the knowledge that they are gaining about the workings of a farm. Moreover, communication between the school and the care farm has been crucial in providing an outline of the young person and their needs and our joint target setting for them, to support them in developing skills that will be vital for their future.
The support staff, that have attended the sessions, speak highly of the professionalism of the staff and their interactions with the students. The students return to school very calm and ready to engage in learning following their visits and experiences with the animals that are there.
On the whole - it is early days but we are thankful for the opportunity to be able to offer this once in a lifetime learning programme. A unique and exciting journey. Thank you”