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

With a career that has spanned from nursery nurse, primary and secondary SEN teacher to Headteacher and Education Director across specialist primary and secondary settings. Ludivine has led schools 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 space – 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.’

One of the most important aspects 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 therapeutic space – it provides hands-on experience in animal care, horticulture, trades, and food production. Every activity is intentional, building real skills and confidence for life beyond school.

‘For many of our learners, it’s not about ticking boxes – it’s about finding a path or a future they can believe in. Whether they need this support short or long term, the farm helps make that future feels real. And that matters to me deeply.’

Alongside her leadership at 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 her training as a School Improvement Partner, continuing her mission to shape inclusive, thoughtful education across the UK.