Peaceful Paddocks Curriculum Offer

Overview
Peaceful Paddocks provides a therapeutic, nature-based alternative provision designed to foster resilience, wellbeing, and personal growth for children and young people. Our curriculum is tailored to support learners who benefit from a holistic, experiential approach beyond traditional classroom settings. The curriculum integrates academic development, personal and social education, and therapeutic activities within a nurturing outdoor environment.

The positive emotional effects of being outdoors and connecting with nature are proven. Being in the fresh air, within nature, and around animals can help improve anxiety and stress symptoms. We offer a range of activities within a natural setting to support and improve physical and mental well-being while developing life skills.

Curriculum Framework

1. Therapeutic and Wellbeing Core

  • Mindfulness and emotional regulation techniques

  • Reflective journaling and guided self-expression

  • Regular check-ins and Pastoral support sessions

  • Resilience-building activities

  • Social skills development and peer interaction facilitation

2. Nature-Based Learning and Personal Development

  • Practical outdoor skills: gardening, animal care, basic farming

  • Environmental education: ecology, sustainability, conservation

  • Physical activity: animal care activities, nature walks, team-building exercises

  • Confidence and self-esteem enhancement through achievement recognition

  • Creative arts in nature: nature crafts, environmental art projects

3. Academic Support and ASDANS

  • Literacy and numeracy development through contextualised, hands-on activities

  • ASDAN Qualifications including Animal care and Horticulture

  • Employability and life skills: communication, time management, problem-solving

  • Projects integrating curriculum subjects with practical, real-world application

  • Regular assessment and personalised learning plans tailored to individual needs

Delivery and Structure

  • Small group sizes to provide personalised attention and support

  • Create positive relationships with children

  • Flexible scheduling to accommodate emotional and behavioural needs

  • Multi-disciplinary team including therapeutic practitioners, educators, and outdoor specialists

  • Use of visual aids

  • Engagement with families and schools to ensure continuity and progress tracking

  • Safe, inclusive environment promoting respect and emotional safety

  • Make every child feel valued

Curriculum Intent

To develop a curriculum which:

  • Creates an aspirational high achievement culture.

  • Ignites a passion for learning and a growth mindset

  • Considers individual needs and styles.

  • Allows everyone to experience success.

  • Raises standards of attainment and progress. 

  • Identifies everyone’s needs and growth areas

  • Is holistic with a strong focus on wellbeing, safeguarding and achievement throughout life

Outcomes

  • Improved emotional wellbeing and self-confidence

  • Enhanced social and communication skills

  • Development of practical life skills and resilience

  • Progress in literacy and numeracy

  • Increased engagement with learning and positive behaviour change

Suitable For

  • Children and young people experiencing social, emotional and mental health difficulties

  • Those who struggle in mainstream educational settings

  • Learners needing personalised, hands-on approaches to education and wellbeing

  • Individuals seeking an alternative, supportive learning environment connected to nature

Peaceful Paddocks is committed to providing an empowering and nurturing curriculum that supports every learner’s journey towards personal growth and future success.

 

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