Education buddies - about us
Our Vision
Our provision is delivered from the secure, dedicated premises of the Dame Dorothy Hub (located in the SR6 area), which operates from 8:45 am to 2:45 pm.
The facility is fully accessible and designed to facilitate a comprehensive educational experience. Key amenities include a secure garden, an outdoor classroom, and a dedicated sensory room. This central location fosters robust opportunities for both on-site and off-site, community-based learning experiences.
Our team consists of eight dedicated professionals, including qualified teachers, a sports coach, a swimming teacher, a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA), and a team of Teaching Assistants (TAs). This structure enables a high staff-to-student ratio, up to 3:1, ensuring personalised attention and support. A consultant Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) provides strategic oversight of all educational activities and student progress.
We offer a diverse curriculum that includes nationally recognized, accredited courses through awarding bodies such as NOCN, ASDAN, and AQA. Academic pathways are available in core subjects including Mathematics and English, as well as in essential life skills, such as independent living and social development modules (e.g., animal care).
These courses are delivered at levels ranging from pre-entry to Level 1 and are meticulously tailored to meet each student's specific interests and academic goals.
We are well-equipped to support students with more complex needs and significant behavioural challenges. Our approach is built on providing a patient, supportive, and structured environment. All staff are highly trained in positive behaviour management strategies and the prevention and de-escalation of aggressive behaviours.
Beyond the core curriculum, we enhance the educational offer with a variety of enrichment programmes in areas such as animal care, LEGO-based therapy, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), and comprehensive sports coaching, including swimming instruction.
We proactively ensure our operations align with the latest government guidance issued in August 2025 regarding unregistered education providers.
Our services
We specialise in providing bespoke, high-quality alternative educational provisions for children and young people who are unable to access mainstream or specialist school settings effectively.
Our services cater to a diverse range of needs, funded through various pathways, including Education Otherwise Than At School (EOTAS) packages, Elective Home Education (EHE) arrangements, and placements for students with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) difficulties.
Our provision is specifically designed to support students with complex needs and those who exhibit behaviours that challenge, by offering a structured, nurturing, and patient environment. Key aspects of our service include:
- Tailored Educational Pathways: We develop highly individualised learning plans that focus on both academic attainment (offering accredited courses such as NOCN, ASDAN, and AQA, ranging from pre-entry to Level 1) and holistic personal development.
- Specialist Support: Our professional staff are trained in positive behaviour management and the de-escalation of aggressive behaviours, creating a safe and supportive atmosphere where students can thrive.
- Flexible Delivery: Education is delivered in a variety of suitable environments outside of a traditional school setting, such as a dedicated hub, home, or community locations, ensuring accessibility and engagement tailored to individual capacity.
- Focus on Well-being: We address the underlying social, emotional, and mental health needs that often act as barriers to learning, helping to build resilience, self-confidence, and essential life skills.
- Accreditation and Compliance: We ensure all education provided is suitable and meets statutory requirements, working in close collaboration with parents/carers and local authorities.
We are committed to helping every child overcome their specific barriers to achievement, providing them with the opportunity to succeed and achieve their full potential in a setting that best suits their individual requirements.