We are a Quality Assured Alternative Education Provision based in Cumbria, with a unique and progressive approach to teaching and learning. We work with young people who are unable to meet their potential in mainstream education, and consult with the professionals who support them. We have been Quality Assured by the Local Authority and are proud to uphold the 13 quality areas identified in the AP Quality Toolkit, published by the Centre for Social Justice. 

 

We are a diverse team of highly qualified teachers, with years of professional and lived experience, passionate about personalised education programmes that meet the individual academic, pastoral and creative needs of each young person. Our aim is to curate an environment where individual growth and success is achievable without question, working closely with the young person and their support network to achieve positive outcomes.

 

Our mission at Mighty Oak Initiative is to provide bespoke educational pathways for learners aged 11 to 18 (up to 25 with an EHCP) specifically those with Special Education Needs or Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs, and those looking for a tailored education experience, where differences are normalised and celebration is central to our curriculum.

 

We have a setting in Kendal and one within the grounds of Happy Hooves Equestrian Centre on the outskirts of Penrith. Each setting offers a supported and caring learning experience, with a fully structured programme, and exciting progression opportunities. Each teaching and learning space is a nurturing and homely environment, and we have partnered with external providers to offer Equestrian-facilitated Education, Supported-Internships and a range of outdoor vocational studies and activities, facilitated by fully qualified staff. Our holistic approach to learning engages our students in unique and meaningful ways with outdoor and site visits across the Lake District and Eden. 

 

Our commitment is that every young person who is part of Mighty Oak Initiative will graduate into the world of further education or work, following our carefully designed pastoral and accredited academic pathway and Supported-Internship Scheme. They will obtain formal qualifications in maths, English and science (Functional Skills or GCSE), with the further option of pursuing psychology, computing, sports leadership, art, equestrian and a range of vocational qualifications. Our original, holistic and deeply caring curriculum is designed to build resilience and readiness for young adulthood, specifically through our Preparing for Adulthood programme, as well as a unique sense of purpose and a lifelong love of learning. Every young person who comes to us will have an Individual Learning Plan and full, robust transition to and from our setting supported by a named Key-Worker and SENCo.

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Mighty Oak Initiative offers an original and bespoke study and revision programme called the ELEVATEpathway! TM  designed specifically for learners with autism who would like to undertake GCSE English. Learn more about the ELEVATEpathway! TM  here.

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We also offer consultancy and training for professionals, including teachers, staff working with young people and those working in the NHS. We also work with schools across Cumbria, supporting them to establish their own internal Alternative Provisions.

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We are a fully accredited Team Teach provision.