Person-centred holistic learning for young people with additional needs

As a provision of Ruskin Mill Trust (Independent Education provider and registered charity), Freeman College offers a person-centred approach to holistic learning by role modelling positive relationships in the fields of arts, crafts, commerce, agriculture, nutrition, living skills and the environment. Freeman College placements are offered on either a day (Education) or residential (Education plus residential services) basis, for 36 or 52 weeks of the year.

Students typically attend 30 hours education per week, by agreement with the Local Authorities annual review procedure, or by private agreement. The Trusts method of Practical Skills and Therapeutic Education (PSTE) harnesses a craft and land-based curriculum to stimulate the development of executive functions, which embeds Functional Skills (literacy and numeracy) into every area of college life and/or residential settings.

This approach enables young people with learning differences to progress through our measurable three-stage pathway:

1. Overcoming barriers to learning
2. Becoming skilled
3. Contributing to community

The acquisition of craft skills, taught by tutors who are skilled in the craft, enables the young person to improve and develop executive functioning such as gross and fine motor skills, mental problem solving, functional skills, independent working, planning and execution of work in a practical manner. The curriculum encourages students to gain social and communication skills, self-confidence and independent living skills in preparation for transition into adulthood.

Find out more about what we offer to young people with complex or additional needs by viewing our Local Offer.

Speak to our admissions team about a placement today

Our admissions team are on hand to speak to you about a placement at Freeman College. We take applications throughout the year for both day and residential provision. Our admissions team can be contacted at [email protected] or by calling 0330 0552653