Introducing the Arc School Old Arley InReach Programme: Empowering Education and Mental Health Support

In today's educational landscape, there is a concerning number of young people who are not accessing proper education and learning opportunities. These individuals often face unmet needs, undiagnosed conditions, and poorly equipped and trained schools.

Compounding the issue, there has been a significant increase in learners who face barriers to learning, resulting in their disengagement from school or education, particularly those with additional Special Educational Needs. These barriers are often associated with mental health, social, emotional, or environmental challenges they encounter in their lives. Furthermore, many young people have fallen behind their age-related peers due to significant gaps in learning, exacerbated by the Covid lockdown.

In response to these pressing concerns, our Arc School Old Arley is proud to launch the InReach Programme. Our primary objectives revolve around enabling learning engagement in a less demanding environment, providing access to core learning opportunities, and fostering personal and progressive aspirations such as employment, further education, or training. We also aim to promote greater independence in adulthood through applied community engagement, enrichment, and personal interest projects.

The InReach Programme is specifically designed for pupils aged 14-16 who face school refusal, emotional and/or anxiety-based school avoidance, increasing non-attendance, or persistent absence. It caters to those who have experienced a significant period of time missing out on education and are dealing with increasing gaps in learning, leading to limited qualifications and outcomes. The programme supports those who are unable to access a school environment but are able to learn and want to engage in meaningful alternative learning methods.

There are many benefits of the InReach Programme. It offers academic support and opportunities for those within reach of their academic capabilities. Furthermore, the programme is provided within a setting that is accessible to the specific needs of the learners, ensuring they receive the necessary attention and accommodations.

To ensure the success of our students, we have established clear outcomes and methods for measuring progress. Students enrolled in the InReach Programme will have access to a range of nationally accredited programmes and qualifications. Additionally, we provide various assessment measures linked to academic and personal progress, including self-reflective assessments. Regular baseline assessments and updates will be conducted to closely monitor students' development and growth.

A crucial aspect that sets the InReach Programme apart is the presence of experienced and skilled teaching staff with subject knowledge relevant to the students' needs. Our dedicated team is equipped to maximize progress and outcomes for each student. Key staff members undergo relevant professional training to ensure they have a comprehensive understanding of the pupils' holistic needs and can effectively address them. This includes training in mental health, autism support, zones of regulation, the PACE model, pastoral support training, as well as Senior Educational Psychologist-guided training, support, and input.

The teaching approaches within the InReach Programme are designed to support students in engaging with activities in the community whenever appropriate. We offer a life-skills program that focuses on functional Personal, Social, Health, and Economic (PSHE) education. This ensures that students not only acquire academic knowledge but also develop essential skills to thrive in various aspects of life.

While the InReach Programme is still in its early stages, we have already seen positive outcomes through our pilot case study. One child who participated in the program demonstrated significant progress and growth, highlighting the potential of this initiative to make a meaningful impact on young individuals' lives.

Looking ahead, the InReach Programme aims to provide students with diverse destinations after completion. These may include apprenticeships or further education at reputable institutions such as the Open University or specialised universities offering autism support.

What truly sets the InReach Programme apart is its timetabled, structured nature, ensuring dedicated staff support and regular face-to-face sessions. This program is not simply an online or remote learning experience but emphasises the importance of personal interaction and guidance. The regular input of teaching assistants learning alongside the students further enhances the learning experience.

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