Vana Trading CIC Alternative Education Provision

Therapeutic learning. Practical skills. New possibilities.

Therapeutic, farm-based education for young people of secondary-school age to 25 who may be unable to access mainstream education. This includes young people with SEND or social, emotional and mental-health needs, care leavers, and those on reduced timetables, with persistent absence or previous exclusion.

Discuss a placement

Opening Wednesday 4 November 2026

WednesdaysInitial operating day
Groups of 4 to 6Small-group learning
Half or full dayFull day about 5 hours

What young people do

Trusted relationships, structured outdoor learning and meaningful practical work on our therapeutic organic farm. Sessions may include:

Horticulture and food production
Animal care and land management
Forest-school and outdoor learning
Cooking and practical life skills
Emotional-regulation and wellbeing activities
Social development and independence skills

Personalised placements

Our approach is pupil-centred, strengths-based and trauma-informed. Activities are adapted to each young person’s needs, communication style, attention span and, where applicable, EHCP targets.

Before a placement starts, we agree the young person’s strengths, needs, risks, support requirements and desired outcomes.

Placement length and student numbers are subject to the agreed placement plan, staffing, safeguarding arrangements and capacity.

Outcomes we work towards

Confidence, wellbeing and emotional regulation
Social skills and independence
Practical and vocational skills
Stronger engagement with learning
Progress towards education, training or employment, and against placement or EHCP targets

Activities may also support AQA unit awards or other accreditation, subject to approval and quality assurance.

Who we work with

We welcome enquiries from schools, SENCOs, local authorities, SEND teams, parents, carers and independent commissioners about referrals, visits and placement packages.

Our team

Vana Trust Farm has run for about 25 years, offering organic-farm activities for people with SEND. Our team brings experience in therapeutic support, social care and outdoor learning. We work with families, schools and local authorities to plan placements and review progress.

Opening 4 November 2026

To discuss a placement, arrange a visit or speak with the team, call the Farm managers on 01844 237146, email contact@vanatrust.org.uk or use the contact form below.

Contact The Farm

Yew Tree Farm,

Duck Lane, Ludgershall,

Buckinghamshire

HP18 9XZ

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