Ludivine Parmentier is the heart behind Orchard Therapeutic Farm – a committed educator, advocate, and changemaker with over 30 years’ experience in Special Educational Needs and a lifelong belief in the power of learning beyond the classroom.

Her career has spanned nursery nurse, primary and secondary SEN teacher, Headteacher, and Education Director across specialist settings for children with complex learning profiles, emotional needs, and neurodivergence. Her approach is built on care, curiosity, and the belief that all young people deserve to be seen, understood, and supported to grow.

She founded Orchard Therapeutic Farm to create exactly that – a place where education is practical, nurturing, and rooted in real life.

‘Children in alternative provision aren’t broken – they’re aching. They’re aching to feel safe, to be part of something real. Orchard was built to meet that ache with calm, purpose, and possibility.’

A core part of her work is supporting children and young people with SEND to find meaningful pathways into vocational training and future employment. The farm offers more than a therapeutic space – it provides hands-on experience in animal care, horticulture, trades, and food production. Every activity builds real skills and confidence for life beyond school.

Alongside leading Orchard, Ludivine has served on the Parliamentary Board of Advisors for the Secretary of State, influencing national reform in Alternative Provision. She is currently completing training as a School Improvement Partner, continuing her mission to shape inclusive, thoughtful education across the UK.