Student Journey

Young people accepted into the foundation often have negative experiences with education systems, including multiple exclusions and poor emotional support. Many have low self-esteem, poor mental health, and families who feel hopeless about finding suitable provision.

Meetings with home support networks, family members, or carers are a key part of the consultation process. Before acceptance, a full assessment is carried out with all involved agencies. Foundation staff visit homes to understand each young person’s needs and aspirations, ensuring we can offer appropriate support. Building strong, positive relationships with home settings is central to our work, and ongoing collaboration continues throughout the student’s time with us.

Once accepted, students are placed in a hub suited to their learning style and emotional development rather than age or academic level. Each student receives a tailored induction plan based on their needs and voice. Induction may last from a few days to several months, with at least four weeks recommended for a smooth transition to full-time on-site provision.

If a student’s needs are too complex for immediate hub placement, an outreach hub programme is offered. A specialist team supports the young person at home or off-site for at least three months before reviewing progress and designing any further tailored provision.

Provision & Approach

Full details of the provision and our approach are detailed in the following policies:

Me, Myself & I

Induction

Curriculum

Learning & Teaching

Onward Transition

The foundation is committed to supporting our young people to obtain the best possible offer for the next stage in their journey.

As soon as a student is enrolled, they will access the foundation’s careers programme, which supports students to deepen their understanding of employability, how to develop their CV through such opportunities as volunteering or work experience, and ultimately how to apply for college courses or jobs.

During Year 10 and/or 11, we work closely with our students, their home setting, and their preferred post-16 provision to ensure there is a comprehensive and personalised post-16 Transition Plan in place. Foundation staff endeavour to support all aspects of transition into post-16 provision with a view to helping our young people make informed decisions about their next steps.