In these first weeks back, the focus has been on calm, predictable structures and practical learning that feels manageable and meaningful. At The Barn, daily settle routines and use of the Adventure at the Barn books have helped young people regulate, communicate how they are feeling and set simple goals for the day. Learning has been rooted in real-life activities, with students practising reading, writing and maths through tasks such as writing shopping lists, budgeting, comparing prices, reading instructions and planning and cooking shared meals. These sessions have supported teamwork, independence and confidence, while also strengthening core skills. Animal care and outdoor learning have quickly re-established their place in the daily rhythm, with chicken care, farm-assisted activities and nature walks supporting responsibility, regulation and connection to the environment.

Across Outreach and Barn, we have seen some really encouraging progress. Jacob has shown growing confidence in social situations, initiating conversations around his interests, taking turns during group activities and engaging enthusiastically in cooking and animal care. He has begun to verbalise how he is feeling, taken pride in what he has achieved and managed transitions with increasing calm, which has supported his move into The Barn this term. Lucas has sustained engagement for longer periods than ever before, staying focused on adult-led activities such as science play, phonics, maths and baking. He has made steady progress in early literacy and numeracy, is increasingly able to express his needs and emotions, and has shown growing independence in self-care and safety routines. Freddie has made strong gains in communication, confidence and emotional regulation. He has engaged positively in group activities, followed personalised routines, managed transitions calmly and shown pride in his achievements. His enthusiasm has been clear, including asking to stay longer during Barn visits, and he is now beginning his time at The Barn.

Alongside individual progress, there have been shared successes across the group. Our young people are showing improved emotional regulation, greater confidence in social interaction and increased independence in routines and transitions. Hands-on, interest-led activities such as cooking, creative work and animal care have supported progress in literacy, numeracy and problem-solving, while sensory-rich experiences have helped young people feel settled and ready to learn.

As the term continues, we are also supporting growth across the provision. Two Outreach students have started attending The Barn this month, with further transitions planned after February half-term. One student has successfully begun a gradual transition from The Barn to the Farm, engaging fully in sessions and exceeding expectations, particularly in art and woodwork. We are also responding to an increase in referrals, visits and taster sessions by developing additional Barn spaces and expanding work experience opportunities.

These early weeks have set a steady and positive tone for the term ahead. The focus remains on small, bespoke support, practical learning and helping young people build the confidence they need to take their next steps, in their own time and in the right way for them.