Steady Progress, Shared Moments and Meaningful Steps Forward
February has been a month of engagement, reflection and steady development across Storyy Group. Across Alternative Provision, Supported Accommodation and our Children’s Homes, young people have continued to build confidence through routine, practical learning and supportive relationships. Progress has shown up in many different ways this month, from small steps in confidence to significant transitions into education and independence.
Alternative Provision
Primary Alternative Provision –Storyybrook
Throughout February at Storyybrook, young people have taken part in learning that combines practical life skills with creativity and cultural awareness.
The month began with pancake making sessions, where young people developed kitchen safety skills while building confidence through hands on cooking. These sessions supported independence, communication and an understanding of shared responsibility within a group setting.
Learning then moved into exploring the history of Valentine’s Day. Young people engaged in thoughtful discussions, creative activities and conversations about how the day is recognised around the world. These sessions encouraged curiosity and reflection while allowing space for imagination and expression.
More recently, young people have been learning about Chinese New Year. They explored the meaning behind the celebration, learned about zodiac animals, tasted traditional foods and created lanterns. These activities supported cultural understanding while encouraging collaboration and creativity.
Looking ahead, preparations are underway for World Book Week. Young people will take part in themed activities including dressing up, a tea party inspired by The Tiger Who Came to Tea, chocolate bar making and shared reading sessions. Dress up day will take place on Thursday 5th March, followed by Parents Evening on 10th March, providing an opportunity to reflect on progress and next steps together.
February also brought encouraging feedback from an Educational Psychologist, who commented positively on the calm and supportive atmosphere during their visit. Particular recognition was given to Charlotte for her mentoring and the way she supported a young person throughout the session. We also received kind feedback from a parent who expressed gratitude for the consistent care shown to their child during a particularly challenging period.
A further success this month was seeing one young person secure a specialist placement to meet their needs after a long period of waiting. It has also been positive to see young people increasingly engaging in group sessions and building stronger peer relationships across the provision.
Finchampstead
At Finch, PSHE sessions throughout February have focused on First Aid, Drugs and Alcohol, Health and Fitness and the Climate Crisis. Young people approached these topics thoughtfully, engaging in both practical learning and reflective discussion.
The salon space has been adapted to allow for acrylic nail work, expanding opportunities for vocational skill development and creativity. In addition, one young person has begun painting characters from Inside Out to create a Calm Corner within the provision. This project reflects the importance we place on emotional awareness and creating spaces that support regulation and wellbeing.
Looking ahead, young people will be taking part in volunteering opportunities at Coffee and Coach. We will also be launching an AP wide Spring photography competition titled The Storyy of Spring, encouraging creativity and positive engagement with the environment around us.
Trades
Trades has continued to be a space of collaboration, practical skill development and shared encouragement. Young people have been steadily completing AQA units while progressing with individual and joint projects. Peer support has been particularly noticeable this month, with young people offering guidance and recognising one another’s efforts.
The landscaping area has been cleared and prepared for wood chipping, with a timber frame installed to improve the entrance and prevent it from becoming boggy. These practical improvements reflect problem solving, teamwork and pride in the environment.
Engagement across sessions has remained positive. One example has been Alfie, who has increasingly stepped outside of his comfort zone. Having previously preferred to work independently, he has begun building stronger relationships with peers and recently supported another young person in overcoming a practical challenge. His communication and teamwork skills have grown noticeably, reflecting increased confidence.
Birch Hill
At Birch Hill, PSHE sessions this month have focused on Mental Wellbeing, Drugs and Alcohol and Careers. These sessions have supported reflection, planning and informed decision making as young people consider their futures.
Several Year 11 young people will soon begin supporting Storyybrook with maintenance tasks, including gardening and preparation work for the summer festival. This opportunity allows them to develop responsibility and practical skills while contributing positively to the wider Storyy community.
One young person is nearing completion of a construction course undertaken over half term, while others are revising and preparing for upcoming functional skills exams. Boxing sessions with Liam have continued to be well attended, with young people completing multiple boxing AQA units and maintaining consistent engagement in both group and individual training sessions.
Supported Accommodation
There are currently 15 young people living across Storyy Homes. Of these, nine are engaged in education, two are in employment and three are not currently in education, employment or training. Each young person continues to receive tailored support based on their individual circumstances and goals.
February marked an important transition as we celebrated the move on of Madi after nearly two years with us. As she approaches the completion of her Apprenticeship in Sports Coaching, we recognise the progress and determination she has shown during her time here. She enjoyed a farewell gathering attended by staff and managers, and her warmth and humour will be missed. We look forward to welcoming her back to visit.
We also welcomed two new young people this month. One young person’s enthusiasm for basketball led to the purchase of a full sized freestanding hoop, which has quickly become a shared activity enjoyed by both staff and young people.
During half term, young people from across the homes came together for a trip to Laser Quest and Bowling, followed by pizza and a game of Uno. These shared experiences continue to build connection and strengthen relationships across the service.
A special congratulations goes to one of our young people who passed her driving theory test on her first attempt. This achievement reflects preparation, focus and a growing sense of independence.
Children’s Homes
February has continued to centre around stability, belonging and meeting individual needs with care and consistency within our Children’s Homes.
One of our young people is currently being supported throughout Ramadan to ensure her cultural and spiritual needs are understood and respected. Staff have worked closely with her to make thoughtful adjustments to routines and meals so that she can observe this important period in a way that feels supported and meaningful. Recognising and valuing identity remains central to the care we provide.
We are also pleased to share that another young person has recently started full time education. This step represents significant progress and readiness, and we will continue to provide consistent support as they settle into their new routine. Transitions such as these require encouragement and steady guidance, and it has been positive to see this young person approach this new chapter with growing confidence.
Across the homes, young people continue to engage in daily routines that promote independence, communication and emotional regulation. Staff remain focused on creating calm, predictable environments where young people feel safe, listened to and understood.
A Message from the Team
February has reinforced the importance of steady encouragement, clear routines and meaningful relationships. Across all services, young people have continued taking steps forward at a pace that feels manageable and purposeful.
If you would like to learn more about Storyy Group, discuss referrals or explore how we can support young people in your setting, please get in touch.
📧 hello@storyy.group
📞 01344 987 877
🌐 www.storyy.group
