The Forest College programme is an alternative programme for Key Stage 4 pupils who are struggling in a school environment, or who would benefit from a long transition into Reaseheath College. Many of our pupils have Autism, anxiety, PTSD.  

The programme is designed to re engage and support young people to feel positive about themselves and their abilities, to lower anxiety and build resilience. Research shows that time spent outdoors and in crafting activities lowers cortisol levels, lowers blood pressure and stimulates the immune system.

The programme is personalised for individuals to develop confidence, independence and employability skills.  Our students work in small groups of 7-10.  There are no formal qualifications in the programme, and very little time will be spent on paperwork or traditional learning.

Last year almost 90% of year 11 Forest College pupils progressed onto mainstream programmes at Reaseheath at levels 1,2 and 3.

Activities will include:

• Small Animal Husbandry – working in our Farm Barn with a range of small animals
• Zoo  - practical sessions in our zoo with a wide range of animals
• Shelter making in Reaseheath woods
• Foraging – gathering the resources we need from the college grounds
• Woodland walks – explore the woods learning how to recognise various plants and trees and their uses
• Gardening and horticulture
• Working in a team
• Working towards independence
• Countryside – woodlands, ponds and orchards, woodland animals
• Agriculture – sheep, cows, lambs, hens
• Relaxation and board games – our students enjoy playing quizzes and games, and working cooperatively within a set of rules is an important life skill that we support them to develop.  They also help to make drinks for break times and wash up and clean up their room at the end of their day in college
• Mindfulness activities – we start the day with mindful drawing activities, listening to music
• Reading – all students are able to use the college library and often enjoy quiet reading sessions
• Arts and crafts – a range of art and craft activities using nature and recycled objects as a resource.

Please email for a prospectus and more information

The Key Stage 4 and Post 16 Forest College alternative provision is a 30 week programme that runs for a minimum of one day per week within the college academic year.  Term starts after October half term, we offer transitional visits during the first half term.

This is a full cost provision (There is a cost) Fees from September 2020 are £2,500 for the academic year. Plus £200 for materials and equipment.