Applewood Learning
A Non-School Alternative Provision in Essex
Personalised Education for Young People Who Cannot Access Full-Time Schooling
Applewood Learning supports children and young people aged 7–25 who are struggling to attend school or are not currently accessing education.
We work with learners experiencing Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA), providing specialist educational support that enables safe
re-engagement and meaningful progress.
Our experienced team works in partnership with families, schools and Local Authorities to deliver bespoke education packages that meet individual needs and circumstances.
Whether support is required short-term or longer-term, our focus is simple:
restoring confidence, rebuilding engagement, and creating pathways forward.
About Applewood Learning
Our approach to teaching and learning
At Applewood Learning, we recognise that every young person’s journey is unique, particularly for those who face challenges with emotional wellbeing or engagement in education.
Our specialist educators have extensive experience supporting learners with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA). We use a relational, trauma-informed approach that prioritises emotional safety, trust, and consistency.
The Applewood way centres on understanding each learner as an individual. From this, we create personalised learning pathways that support academic progress, confidence, emotional regulation, and re-engagement with learning.
Learning may take place at home, online, in school, or in the community. Across all settings, we provide calm, nurturing environments and a flexible approach that allows learners to progress at their own pace.
Our
Students
At Applewood Learning, we work with young people aged 7 to 25 years who are not currently in full-time education or who may be struggling to engage in a traditional school setting.
Students do not need a formal diagnosis or an Educational, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) to learn with us.
Our students come from a wide range of backgrounds and may have individual needs that can include:
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Neurodiversity, such as Autism, ADHD, or other learning differences
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Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs within an educational context
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Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) including diagnosed or undiagnosed needs
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Anxiety or trauma-related barriers to learning
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School refusers or those at risk of exclusion
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Young people educated other than at school (EOTAS)
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Young people who are Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET)
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Looked after Children (LAC) who need extra support in school
We provide flexible, nurturing programmes that support each learner’s personal, social, and educational development — helping them rebuild confidence, re-engage with learning, and prepare for their next steps.
We offer individual pathways or a mix of different approaches, to meet each learner’s needs.
Please click on the links to read more, or contact us for further information for parents and schools.
Applewood Pathways
Creative Arts & Engagement Pathway
Life Skills Pathway
Outdoor Skills Pathway
A nature-based programme helping SEND learners gain confidence, resilience and real-world skills.
A life skills pathway empowering SEND and neurodivergent young people to develop independence and confidence.
A programme designed to support engagement and self-expression through art, craft and wellbeing for young people with SEMH needs.
Testimonials
What Schools, Educators and Parents Say About Us
Testimonials are shared with permission and reflect individual experiences. Outcomes will vary depending on each learner’s needs and circumstances
"The Catch Up interventions in KS2 provided a tailored solution for our pupils. The children benefited from small group work and 1:1 sessions. I am happy to say, all the children made positive progress and grew in confidence with their learning."
Mrs P
Headteacher, Essex
"I would not hesitate to recommend this service. The tutor was sensitive to the children's need whilst working hard to engage them. The tutor made time to get to know the children, motivate them and build good relations. The tutor is a caring professional and her support for the vulnerable children was clear throughout."
Mrs M.
Designated Teacher for Looked After Children
"Following Covid, my son was struggling for a while. The Catch Up lessons the school brought in were fantastic! L became more confident and re-engaged with his learning and supported his transition to secondary school."
Mrs B.
Parent of L
Applewood News
This page will keep you up to date with our latest news, upcoming courses, and opportunities for young people.
We’ll share new programmes, key dates, and important information for parents, carers, and Local Authorities—so please check back regularly.
If you’re interested in a course running in your area, or would like to discuss how the programme could be adapted to suit your child’s individual needs, we’d love to hear from you. We’re always happy to talk things through and explore how we can best support your young person.
3D Art Course starts
17th June
The Quiet Art Course
Limited spaces available for 13th & 20th May
A small, supportive six-week art course for young people aged 11–16 who benefit from a calm, nurturing environment.Led by qualified teachers, sessions focus on building confidence, creativity, and self-expression in a relaxed setting. With only 6 places available, each young person receives individual support.Ideal for students out of school or home educated.Please get in touch to discuss if this course is right for your child.
We are delighted to be added to the list of Alternative Provision providers with Southend Local Authority. We look forward to working in partnership to support and inspire young people across the community.
Join our Quiet 3D Art Course: Clay and Model Making, a supportive 6-week programme designed for young people aged 10–16. In a calm, small-group setting, students will explore 3D sculpture through air-dry clay and hand-building techniques, developing creativity, confidence, and practical skills. With qualified teachers and all materials provided, this course is ideal for those who benefit from a quieter learning environment.
Contact us
Get in Touch
We’d love to hear from you.
Whether you’re a parent, school, or professional, our team is here to listen, answer your questions, and explore how we can support your young person’s learning journey.
Get in touch today - together, we can create the right pathway.
Phone: 07907 520710
Email: info@applewoodlearning.co.uk
For safeguarding concerns call or message 0749 495531
Please note: Applewood Learning Ltd., does not accept direct enquires from children or young people. All contact must be made by a parent, carer, or professional.
We will only use your contact details to respond to your enquiry.
For more information, please see our Privacy Notice.
All work with childen and young people is carried out in line with our safeguarding policies and UK statutory guidance .
Applewood Learning Ltd.,
incorporated in England and Wales.
Registered office address:
Sticklemead,
Main Road,
Bicknacre,
Essex CM3 4HW
Company Number:16799825
© Applewood Learning Ltd 2025