Devon’s Outdoors Group revamps alternative education offer

The Outdoors Group has refreshed its alternative education provision making it easier for parents and educators to access and understand what’s involved.

Previously called the Transitional Learning Programme, this significant area of the group’s business has been renamed the Alternative Outdoor Provision (AOP). AOP offers support to learners who need time out from their main educational setting with one to one or small group sessions in a woodland environment. Most often these are neurodiverse young people, those who have experienced trauma or have social, emotional or mental health needs.

The move to reshape the provision has been spearheaded by Nigel Stanley, who joined the group as a Senior Leader earlier this year. Nigel previously worked as a tutor and head of department in Further Education, for both vocational and apprenticeship pathways.

Nigel says “I’m passionate about supporting neurodivergent young people and those with SEND to take ownership of their learning journey, to feel listened to and valued, and ultimately, to flourish.

“Overseeing these changes to this area of the business has been a really exciting start to my time with the group, and I’m excited to develop the Alternative Outdoor Provision even further.”

As well as its new name, the provision has been developed and expanded, with the addition of nature-based play therapy, autism and mental health consultancy, CBT and therapeutic mentoring. What’s more, AOP is collaborating with The Outdoors School to start outreach work in local schools. For the future, there are plans to partner with the Forest School provision to offer holiday clubs to young people needing different options for childcare during school holidays.

In addition, The Outdoors Group has also widened the area it covers with two new sites: Cann Woods near Plymouth and CUB in Honiton. Nigel has been closely involved with the opening of these sites, liaising closely with The Outdoors Group’s experienced Operations team. Team members are already working at both locations with a number of young people who need some extra support outside of their main educational setting.

The Outdoors Group first delivered an alternative Forest School inspired education provision in 2015 at Whipton Barton. This has now grown to eight woodland sites across Devon and Somerset. During 2024 the group has given positive educational experiences to nearly 50 learners, with the majority making good progress during their sessions. Now, with the additional provision and the two new sites, the group is set to support even more young people over the coming years.