Alternative Education
Programmes
Real support, true connections, a future you believe in.
At Foundation Futures, we understand that mainstream school isn't the right fit for everyone. Traditional classrooms can sometimes feel overwhelming, stressful, or simply disconnected from how you learn best.
Our alternative education programmes are designed to change that. We offer bespoke, trauma-responsive, and inclusive spaces where every person is accepted and valued for exactly who they are. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, disengaged from standard lessons, have experienced trauma, or simply need a different environment where you are truly listened to, we are here to walk with you.
We focus on the whole person. We know that feeling safe, learning to regulate big emotions, and building self-belief are just as important as any academic goal.
Belong
Believe
Become
BE YOU!
Programmes
We support young people in Secondary School (Key Stages 3 and 4.) Our groups are small and supportive, capped at 8 young people with 2 consistent staff members, ensuring you always see a familiar, trusted face.
We run all programmes at our space in Pottery Bank Community Centre. We also take groups out as much as possible to take part in other actvities.
Building Skills: Support for Young Boys (Key Stage 3)
A supportive, trusting space for boys to build trust and do something positive. We use structured discussions, team-building, practical and outdoor activities to help manage dysregulation or risk-taking behaviours. We build a trusting environment where boys can unpack big feelings and learn how to manage them safely with trusting adults
Building Skills: Support for Young Girls (Key Stage 3)
A safe, creative space away from the daily pressures of school, for girls who can become disruptive or withdrawn. We focus heavily on emotional growth and positive relationships Navigating complex peer dynamics, and boosting self-esteem, through creative, discussion and practical based activities.
A slower paced, deeply nurturing setting for young people experiencing anxiety, isolation, or school refusal (EBSNA). We focus on gentle, creative activities to build friendships and trust, by building confidence and developing social skills. A space to open up and feel truly yourself.
Building Skills: Confidence & Connection (Key Stage 3)
Building Futures: Pathways & Progression (Key Stage 4)
For young people in Years 10 and 11 who are disengaged from mainstream education. We provide a calm space to build practical resilience, handle exam stress, and directly plan post-16 routes into work, training, or college. We focus on developing skills for work readiness, such as confidence, communication, team work and a positive attitude. Giving them the life skills needed to tackle adulthood.
What to Expect
No two weeks look exactly the same because our activities are tailored to the interests of the group. Together, we use hands-on, creative, and therapeutic approaches to help young people learn and grow
Real Life Issues
Safe, non-judgmental discussions about things that actually affect young people, from social media and relationships to mental health and personal safety.
Outdoor & Therapeutic Learning
Getting outside the classroom for bushcraft and exploring natural environments to build real courage and resilience. Creative and fun activities to allow young people to communicate more creatively. we focus on outdoor and creative activities consistently through the programmes to support young peoples wellbeing.
Practical Life Skills
Fun, non-threatening challenges like cooking community meals, basic DIY, and group problem-solving. Helping young people to feel ready for any of lifes challenges.
Real Support
Environments and and staff who are non judgemental. A space to feel understood and adults who will support young people through their hardest times and champion them at the best.
A Typical Day
The programmes run termly for 1 day per week. To make things as easy as possible, we collect each young person directly from their front door and drop them safely home at the end of the day. Everything on the programme is covered, meaning all transport, activities, resources, and lunches are included.
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9:00 - 10:30 | Collection and pick-ups from home.
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10:45 - 12:30 | Active, team-building, or workshop.
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12:30 - 1:00 | Lunch.
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1:00 - 2:15 | Slower-paced creative projects or group-chosen activities.
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2:15 - 4:00 | Home drop-offs and a quiet time for personal reflection.
How To Join Us
If you are a young person who needs a different space to learn, or a parent looking for the right support for your child, please speak to your school or contact us directly to find out how to access a placement.
If you are a school or local authority please get in touch to discuss a young person or how to sign up for multiple programmes.
