June has been another fantastic month across Storyy Group, with young people embracing new experiences, developing practical skills and continuing to grow in confidence. Across our Alternative Provision and Supported Accommodation services, we’ve seen creativity flourish, teamwork strengthen and young people challenge themselves in new and exciting ways.
From exploring history through immersive topic work to developing vocational skills, taking part in sporting activities and celebrating cultural diversity, June has been full of opportunities for young people to learn, achieve and thrive.
Alternative Provision
Storyybrook
June has been an exciting month at Storyybrook, with young people immersing themselves in a variety of creative and engaging topic-based learning.
The month began with an adventurous pirate-themed week, where young people learned about pirate life, designed their own pirate flags, created treasure maps and took part in exciting scavenger hunts and treasure hunts that encouraged teamwork, problem solving and communication. They also enjoyed baking island-themed biscuits and discussing what they would take to a desert island.
Learning then moved on to the fascinating world of the Vikings, with young people exploring Viking life, longships, myths and explorers. Through interactive activities they created Viking helmets, shields and longships while developing creativity, fine motor skills and problem-solving.
The final weeks of June focused on insects, with young people exploring butterfly life cycles, bee anatomy and insect habitats through hands-on activities. They built habitats from recycled materials, created insect-themed crafts and even began observing caterpillars as they prepare to transform into butterflies.
A real highlight of the month was a visit from Pete the Poet, who delivered an engaging workshop full of storytelling, drama and music. Through role play, teamwork and creative activities, young people explored themes including kindness, empathy, inclusion and diversity, while learning greetings from around the world and enjoying a lively diversity rap. The session helped build confidence, communication and social skills in a memorable and enjoyable way.
Finchampstead
This month of creativity, self-expression and collaboration at Finchampstead.
PSHE sessions have covered a range of important topics including safety, gender discrimination, health and fitness, and mental health and wellbeing. Young people engaged thoughtfully in discussions, shared their own views and completed AQA units to reinforce their learning.
One of the standout projects this month has been the creation of a vibrant environmental mural using recycled and upcycled materials. This project has encouraged young people who would not usually work together to collaborate, build positive peer relationships and develop their creativity while promoting environmental responsibility.
It has also been wonderful to celebrate the achievements of one young person who recently performed in a theatre production. Staff were delighted to attend the performance and witness first-hand the confidence and talent they have developed. Alongside this, many young people have continued progressing with personal art projects, experimenting with tattoo designs, shading techniques and large-scale murals while strengthening their artistic skills.
Trades
Trades has continued to be a place where young people develop practical skills, resilience and teamwork through real-life projects.
This month, several young people have been supporting Storyybrook by clearing the allotment area in preparation for summer planting. Working together, they have used a wide range of tools safely while developing communication, resilience and problem-solving skills.
Another young person successfully designed and built a storage shelf to take home, demonstrating excellent focus, safe tool use and confidence in asking for support when needed.
Young people have also worked collaboratively to improve the site by creating a drainage system to prevent flooding during heavy rainfall. This practical project encouraged teamwork, planning and creative problem solving while making a lasting improvement to the provision.
Birch Hill
At Birch Hill, young people have continued developing both physically and personally through a wide range of activities.
Throughout June, PSHE sessions have explored mental wellbeing, goals and aspirations, toxic masculinity and environmental awareness. These discussions have encouraged thoughtful reflection while linking to a whole-site environmental competition, where young people are creating murals using recycled materials and natural resources.
Outside the classroom, sport has remained a key part of provision life. Young people have continued working towards their GB Boxing Awards alongside regular football, badminton, pool and darts sessions. Visits to a local gym have also helped develop confidence, fitness and safe use of equipment while contributing towards AQA qualifications.
Cooking sessions have continued to be a favourite, with young people preparing homemade burgers, tacos, loaded fries and hasselback potatoes, helping to build independence and practical life skills.
Supported Accommodation
It has been another positive and productive month across Storyy Homes. We are currently supporting 14 young people, with four attending college, two in employment and others continuing to develop the skills and confidence needed for their next steps towards independence.
One of the highlights this month was a Dragon’s Den workshop delivered by Senior Support Worker Richard. Young people worked together to identify everyday problems, develop innovative solutions and create business ideas, producing some incredibly imaginative products and business plans while developing teamwork, communication and entrepreneurial thinking.
The warmer weather has also provided plenty of opportunities to get outdoors. A fantastic day trip to Aldershot Lido saw young people enjoy swimming, slides and games in the sunshine. What made the day even more impressive was that the young people planned the trip themselves, researching travel, costs, parking, local facilities and safety considerations, developing valuable independence skills along the way.
Another group put their teamwork and problem-solving abilities to the test during an escape room challenge, while gardening projects, football, basketball and communal cooking activities have continued to bring everyone together across the homes.
We were also proud to support Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Day, with staff and young people wearing yellow, decorating the homes and raising awareness together. Later in the month, we celebrated Eid, recognising and embracing the diverse cultures and traditions represented across Storyy Homes.
It has also been fantastic to celebrate the ambitions of our young people. One young person recently hosted a live radio set through Radio Marmalade, showcasing their passion for music and aspirations of becoming a rapper, while another continues to compete in professional dance competitions. These achievements are a wonderful reminder of the incredible talents and ambitions our young people bring to Storyy Homes every day.
A Message from the Team
June has been a wonderful reminder that learning happens in many different ways. Whether through creative projects, practical experiences, sporting achievements or developing independence, every opportunity helps young people build confidence and prepare for the future.
Thank you to our young people, families, staff and partners for your continued support and commitment. Together, we continue to create environments where young people feel valued, supported and empowered to achieve their potential.
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
