Newhaven Pupil Referral Unit

The project has proved very successful with students thoroughly enjoying the experience whilst taking in these invaluable skills. This is run over the whole of the academic year with the main goal to completely build a fully functioning rowing boat as a team to be rowed on the Thames, which they will then use to compete against other schools taking part in the project. Overall the experience has proven to improve students communication and problem solving skills, build confidence and keep health and fitness a priority.

At Gardens students have opportunities to explore music through Arts Award and music is used in Engage to develop students’ understanding of poetry. There are opportunities for students at King’s Park to participate in Music Therapy as stated on their EHCP and as a part of supportive interventions taking place. Students where it is not stated on their EHCP are selected through request. At King’s Park, there is a guitar club at lunchtimes where students can self-select to attend. There are currently opportunities across the year where students can access music through careers and external agencies coming in. This has been at the Garden’s site and this could be used across all sites next year due to its successes.

In all weathers, students roam the woods, discovering trails with freedom to interact with the environment. Exploring and soaking up nature has positive mental and physical health benefits. Walks with free-ranging conversation are excellent for socialisation. Silent walks are very good for mindfulness and stress relief. Students will learn how to measure risk without putting themselves or others in danger and how to use the natural environment to stimulate recognition and the use of different senses. Activities undertaken include tree climbing, rope swinging and team games. Skills taught include map making, path finding, making shelters, dens and learning to respect the environment.