January has been a month of reconnection, reflection and steady progress across Storyy Group. After the Christmas break, young people returned to familiar routines, supportive relationships and purposeful learning environments. Across all areas of our work, the focus has been on rebuilding rhythm, supporting wellbeing and creating space for curiosity, creativity and confidence to grow.
Primary Alternative Provision
January at Storyybrook began with a thoughtful exploration of World War II, where young people engaged deeply with key historical themes. Through discussion and hands-on activities, they learned about VE Day, rationing, wartime jobs and evacuation. The curiosity and maturity shown throughout this topic was a real strength, with young people asking insightful questions and showing empathy as they explored what life may have been like during this period.
To deepen their learning, young people designed and created their own air raid shelters using a wide range of resources from across the provision. The work produced was imaginative, carefully planned and full of detail, showing how well the learning had been absorbed. These activities supported creativity, problem solving and collaboration, while allowing young people to express their ideas in practical ways.
Alongside this, January has also seen a strong focus on music and creative expression. Young people explored different music festivals, experimented with rhythm and learned about a variety of instruments. They designed and created their own instruments, using resources from around the provision, which encouraged experimentation, teamwork and self expression.
The month also included a celebration of Burns Night, where young people took part in preparing and tasting a traditional Scottish meal. This experience supported cultural learning and offered another opportunity for shared experiences that build confidence and connection.
Secondary Alternative Provision
Birch Hill
Since returning in January, young people at Birch Hill have been focusing on mental and emotional wellbeing. This has been a valuable way to begin the term, offering space to reconnect, reflect and check in with one another.
As part of this learning, young people explored body image, considering how they feel about themselves and how the opinions of others can influence confidence and self perception. This led into thoughtful discussions around body modification and the reasons people may choose to make these changes. These topics were approached with openness and maturity, creating a respectful environment for discussion.
Over the coming weeks, learning will move on to relationships and drugs and alcohol, continuing to build awareness and emotional literacy.
Beyond the classroom, we were pleased to welcome Liam, a highly qualified boxing coach, to Birch Hill. Liam has already engaged many young people in energetic and challenging sessions that support discipline, confidence and physical wellbeing. His involvement has added a positive and motivating element to the timetable.
We were also delighted to see several young people successfully pass their functional skills exams, supported by our tutor Rachel. This achievement reflects individual commitment and the value of consistent academic support.
Secondary Alternative Provision
Finchampstead
At Finchampstead, January has centred on PSHE and wellbeing, giving young people time to reconnect and reflect following the break. Learning focused on mental and emotional wellbeing before moving into discussions around drugs, alcohol, tobacco and vaping, exploring the effects on both physical and mental health. Young people engaged well in these sessions and demonstrated a strong understanding of the topics.
This week, learning shifted to first aid, where young people learned what should be included in a first aid kit, how to respond to burns and bleeds, how to place someone into the recovery position and the basics of CPR. The practical nature of this learning was met with enthusiasm and maturity.
Creativity has also been strong at Finch. Cooking and baking sessions have been popular, with a particular focus on Biscoff inspired recipes. Alongside this, one young person has begun writing their own rap song, choosing a beat and developing lyrics which will continue over the coming weeks. Another young person explored hair styling, confidently practising new techniques and building pride in their work.
Secondary Alternative Provision
Trades
January has been a productive month within Trades, with young people developing practical skills and confidence through hands-on projects.
One young person learned how to assemble a secure and stable A frame using scaffolding, demonstrating resilience, problem solving and clear communication when seeking support. Another young person redesigned the front of the crop garden, replacing wire fencing with an up cycled pallet solution. By breaking pallets down into planks, they created a stronger and more visually appealing structure while working collaboratively with peers.
Another project currently underway involves the construction of a storage shelf designed to safely hold larger and heavier tools. Once completed and installed, this will improve organisation and create a safer, more functional workspace.
Alongside practical learning, creativity has also played a role. One young person has begun developing a mood board inside one of the containers, exploring abstract design and colour. We are hopeful to develop this further by creating a larger piece of artwork on site, giving young people the opportunity to contribute to the environment in a lasting way.
Supported Accommodation
January has also been a month of reflection and change across our Supported Accommodation (16+). There are currently 16 young people living within our homes, each receiving tailored support based on their individual circumstances and goals.
This month, we celebrated PJ turning 18, marking an important milestone with decorations and shared moments within the home. We also said goodbye to Sophie, who spent two years with us and has now successfully moved into her own flat. While she will be missed, we are incredibly proud of the progress she has made.
December saw staff and young people come together to decorate the homes and share festive moments. Each home received donated Christmas dinners from Admiral Cunningham in Bracknell, and young people were extremely grateful for gifts from POP, Cowshed and Absolutely Together, who also provided another memorable go karting experience.
As the new term continues, we wish the very best of luck to young people currently studying for theory tests and taking driving lessons as they continue building independence and confidence.
A Message from the Team
January has reinforced the importance of calm starts, consistent routines and supportive relationships. Across Storyy Group, young people have returned to spaces where they feel safe, understood and encouraged to move forward.
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
