Harrogate autism charity set to offer alternative learning sessions to help children with education

The Nidderdale charity will offer bespoke learning to support children aged seven to 17 years old with mental health, educational, social and emotional needs.

It will include a unique package of sessions, including maths, English, art and topic-based learning around an interest-based curriculum.

Young people can also study for AQA Unit Awards and GCSEs.

Sarah Kekoa, Founder of Autism Angels, said: “We are so excited to be able to offer this new addition to our already thriving services.

"We want to bring the joy back into learning whilst keeping our wellbeing and mental health at the heart of everything we do.”

The bespoke learning offer means that children and young people can access a flexible curriculum which naturally engages.

The learning will be available in a low demand, nurturing and democratic environment.

Sessions will be available up to four days a week, from 10am till 3pm, at the Autism Angels outdoor care farm near Harrogate.

Children can either access these via self-funding, fundraising opportunities or through being funded by their school or local authority.

Autism Angels is launching the Alternative Learning Provision at its Charity Ball on November 30.

Tickets for the event at The Old Swan Hotel in Harrogate are £65 per person, and include a welcome drink, three-course festive meal, tea or coffee and mince pies.

The charity is looking for local businesses and supporters who have an interest in children’s mental health and autism to get involved with the event as sponsors and to donate raffle prize donations for the event.

They can offer benefits such as brand placement on event materials and social media.

Sarah added: “Guests will be able to dance the night away.

"They can also take part in other entertainment and fundraising games, and will have a chance to win some fantastic prizes- all while helping raise extra funds.

“Our Charity Ball will be an amazing opportunity to support and raise funds for a local charity, with all proceeds directly supporting children and families accessing Autism Angels.

"This will help us to continue delivering vital services and make a real difference in the community.”

Autism Angels was set up over 12 years ago to support local children and families in crisis.

Based in Nidderdale, it provides a wide range of specialist mental health and wellbeing support, including therapeutic coaching and equine therapy while bringing together a community of families on a similar journey.

It also offers wellbeing days, Saturday kids’ clubs, private riding therapy, family fun events and volunteering opportunities.

No diagnosis of any kind is needed to access Autism Angels’ services, including the Alternative Learning Provision.

For more information about Autism Angels, visit https://autismangels.co.uk/