Orchard Therapeutic Farm is an Independent Alternative Provision (IAP), offering support that complements and supplements the education provided in schools.

Ofsted (July 2014) defines alternative provision as: “Something in which a young person participates as part of their regular timetable, away from the site of the school or the pupil referral unit where they are enrolled, and not led by school staff.”

Who we support

Our IAP is designed to help learners:

• Who cannot manage a full-time curriculum in school

• With social, emotional, or health needs

• At risk of exclusion or exploitation

• Needing support with transitions

• Who are disadvantaged

• Who may struggle to attend school regularly

What we offer

We provide alternative provision for young people with specific SEN needs (see our Admissions Policy for details). As an independent organisation, we offer educational, pastoral, and welfare support for young people aged 6 to 18 through targeted interventions and structured educational programmes.

• Targeted interventions focus on young people’s PSHME needs, aiming to build confidence through workshops and 1:1 support.

• Educational programmes are designed to provide flexible pathways, including a broad curriculum and, where needed, bespoke programmes tailored to individual needs and interests. Many programmes combine strong pastoral care, welfare support, and vocational opportunities.

Attendance and outcomes

Young people aged 6 to 16 can attend for up to 15 hours per week. Our support is designed either to reintegrate them into their existing educational setting or to prepare them for Employment, Education, and Training (EET).