The Ufton Court Educational Trust has launched a second provision of their alternative learning programme, The Nest, within the grounds of Ufton Court.

The Nest focuses on helping children and young people who face difficulties at school with friendships and managing their emotions in a formal school setting.

The aim is to provide positive experiences that boost self-esteem, self-awareness and the tools to build the foundations essential for learning.

(Image: Ufton Court Educational Trust)
The need for such a programme has been highlighted by the 44 per cent increase in school exclusions between 2021/22 and 2022/23.

 Children with special educational needs (SEN) are reportedly up to five times more likely to be excluded than others.

 The Nest's approach is centred around the holistic development of children, focusing on their social, emotional and physical well-being, in addition to their learning progress.

 The new provision will allow the charity to support a larger number of children.

Kayleigh Forbes, Head of Learning, said: "It is a privilege to be able to support even more schools and children with our second dedicated provision for The Nest.

 "With the rising number of children who face challenges at home and at school, what we do at Ufton Court is more important than ever.

 "Schools and teachers are under so much pressure already, and alternative learning programmes like The Nest can help them ensure that the needs of all children are met."

 The Nest can accommodate up to eight children from one school per session, primarily focusing on Year 1 to Year 5 children. The new, second provision will welcome 11-14 year old young people, especially those with anxiety that results in low attendance and school.

The Nest is led by highly qualified and experienced staff, who use a trauma-informed and therapeutic approach to create a nurturing space where children feel valued, understood and supported.

The programme includes unique features that are personalised to each child, such as outdoor learning, creative and practical learning opportunities, and personal growth challenges.

A case study from the programme tells of a boy, referred to as Jamie, who struggled with social interactions and exhibited bullying behaviours at school.

 After consistent weekly engagement in the NEST programme, he has substantially reduced his disruptive behaviour and now actively embraces leadership roles, guiding and supporting others in the group.

 Senior school leaders, SENCO, and inclusion leads at Reading and Basingstoke local schools are invited to contact Ufton Court for more information.