What’s on offer?
Alternative Acres is a therapeutic alternative provision based in Bulwell, Nottingham, supporting young people who face challenges in mainstream education. Set on a working farm, it provides a calm, nurturing environment where learners can re-engage through practical, hands-on experiences.
Our holistic approach combines academic learning with therapeutic, creative, and outdoor activities. Learners work towards functional qualifications in English, Maths, and PSHE, while also building essential life skills that promote independence, confidence, and resilience. Our enrichment offer includes animal care, gardening, fishing, bushcraft, arts and crafts, and other purposeful activities designed to foster engagement and wellbeing.
Sessions are personalised to meet individual needs and delivered by experienced, trauma-informed staff who specialise in SEMH and alternative education. Small group sizes and strong staff relationships allow us to provide a safe, supportive setting where young people can thrive emotionally, socially, and academically.
Functional skills:
English and Maths
Initial and ongoing diagnostic assessments to track progress and inform planning
Blended delivery using:
- Practical, real-life scenarios linked to farm and outdoor activities
- Classroom-based support with small groups or 1:1 teaching
Online learning platforms, including BKSB, to support independent and flexible study
SEND provision:
Our provision is designed to offer a calm, nurturing, and structured environment where learners can feel safe, understood, and supported. We have a dedicated Reflection Garden, a quiet, therapeutic space where students can take time to regulate their emotions and develop self-awareness.
Staff at Alternative Acres have many years of experience working with neurodiverse young people, including those with complex SEMH needs and autism. Our team is trained in trauma-informed practice, and we use consistent, personalised approaches that build trust and support emotional and behavioural regulation.
Learning is tailored and flexible, with a focus on functional academic outcomes, life skills, and therapeutic activities like animal care, bushcraft, fishing and arts. Our provision aligns with EHCP outcomes and promotes both academic progress and personal development.
Therapeutic/nurture/wellbeing support:
Yes, Alternative Acres offers a strong therapeutic, nurture, and wellbeing support framework embedded throughout our provision.
We provide a therapeutic environment that focuses on emotional wellbeing, trust-building, and regulation. Key elements include:
- A dedicated Reflection Garden where learners can take quiet time to process emotions
- Daily access to animals and nature, supporting emotional regulation and connection
- Hands-on activities (e.g. gardening, bushcraft, arts and crafts) designed to build confidence, patience, and self-esteem
- A nurture-based approach with consistent routines, clear expectations, and personalised support
- Trained staff with extensive experience in SEMH, autism, and working with neurodiverse learners, using trauma-informed practice
- Supportive staff-student relationships that prioritise safety, trust, and emotional development
We focus on the whole child, not just academic outcomes, helping young people manage anxiety, rebuild confidence, and develop lifelong coping strategies.
Fees:
£140 Group session per day
£300 1:1 sessions per day