As we dive into the second half of the Summer Term and the days grow longer, we’re excited to reflect on a busy, creative, and meaningful few weeks across all of our services. From science experiments and music to sandpit construction, courtroom drama, and lyrical expression, May has been a month where hands-on learning, teamwork, and personal growth have truly taken centre stage. We’re proud to share a snapshot of what’s been happening across our Storyy Group community.
Alternative Provision
It’s been a fantastic start to the Summer Term across our Primary and Secondary Alternative Provisions.
Primary Alternative Provision: Storyybrook
Over the past four weeks, our primary-aged students have been diving into themed learning weeks full of discovery, creativity, and connection to the wider world.
We began by celebrating Earth Day, learning about sustainability and how our actions impact the planet. Students were fascinated (and shocked!) by how long different household items take to biodegrade in landfill. They explored how plastics are made, tested the properties of different materials, and investigated the effects of waste on our oceans.
In Week 2, we explored The Power of Electricity, learning how circuits work and discovering what materials conduct electricity. From building circuits to powering wind turbines (with a little help from a hairdryer!), our students became true circuit scientists.
Week 3 took us back in time to mark the 80th Anniversary of VE Day. Children learned about The Blitz, evacuation, rationing, and the wartime contributions of people like Alan Turing. They even had a chance to taste Spam, surprisingly popular!
Week 4 was all about music. Students practised body percussion, played ‘The Cup Song’, and explored sound and pitch using junk instruments and guitars. We compared Holst’s ‘Mars – The Bringer of War’ with John Williams’ ‘Imperial Attack’ and explored sound science through instruments.
Throughout, our students have also enjoyed wellness walks in the fresh air, providing a chance to reset between sessions and connect with nature, an important part of our commitment to emotional well-being.
Secondary Alternative Provision
At our Secondary AP sites, May has been packed with rich learning experiences and real-world skill development.
At Finchamstead, students delved into Serious Organised Crime with a mock trial experience that brought the courtroom to life. Through discussions and AQA accreditations, they explored the risks and consequences of criminal behaviour.
We also focused on Sun Safety, including a farm visit to understand animal care in hot weather, and supermarket investigations to compare suncream products. Meanwhile, our Independence and Safety in Adulthood sessions explored fashion and identity, online safety, and practical skills like cooking and being home alone, all backed by AQA qualifications.
In our Friendship and Bullying sessions, students explored how to form healthy relationships and navigate difficult social situations. They created a collaborative mural, celebrating respect, cultural diversity, and positive messaging.
The World Food Project at Birch Hill and Finchamstead was a standout success. Students researched, budgeted, and cooked international meals with outstanding results. Their work will soon become a student-created cookbook!
In Trades, students designed and built a sandpit and a fidget board for our primary students, beautifully crafted to support sensory regulation and emotional well-being. Landscaping has also taken off, with students maintaining woodland spaces while building teamwork, tool confidence, and earning AQA accreditations.
One of our most creative projects has been our oversized Jenga game, with each block containing a thought-provoking question to spark deep conversations.
There have been many proud moments. During a wellness walk at California Country Park, two older students mentored a younger peer with care and maturity. At Birch Hill, two young people recorded original tracks in our music studio, showing real artistic talent and confidence.
Several of our students also completed their GCSEs, and we’re incredibly proud of their hard work and perseverance.
Looking ahead, we’ve launched new partnerships and programmes:
- Absolutely Fitness Bracknell will be hosting gym sessions for our young people, encouraging independence and well-being.
- A local gardening project will get students outside, learning new skills while contributing to the community.
- Our brand-new Focus Forward Programme is now underway. Running until 23rd July, this summer enrichment programme helps 11–16 year olds build confidence, develop skills, and stay safe, engaged, and connected during the summer months.
Supported Accommodation (16+) & Children’s Homes
We currently support 18 young people across our four Storyy Homes. Their journeys continue to be filled with learning, achievements, and creative expression.
Education and Training:
- 2 in school
- 8 in college
- 2 in apprenticeships
- 2 in employment
- 4 not currently in ETE
All young people have been preparing for and sitting their exams, fingers crossed for the results!
This month’s highlights include:
- Welcoming a new young person to Storyy Homes.
- Day trips to Richmond Royal Parks and Hampton Court.
- Visits to Brooklands Car & Aviation Museum, including American muscle car shows!
- VE Day celebrations with themed meals and televised events.
- Painting, upcycling, and mental health awareness week activities, including a penalty shootout competition.
- Life skills in action, with young people learning how to deep-clean ovens and cook delicious meals.
We’re also incredibly proud to announce that Storyy Homes won the Housing Developer Award at the Housing with Care Awards. Director Peter Licourinos accepted the award on behalf of the team, and Senior Support Worker Richard Tobin received a Highly Commended award in The Frontline Leader category. Huge congratulations to both!
Apprenticeships & Training
We’re celebrating the success of learners who’ve recently completed their qualifications, well done to all!
- Charlie Morris, Get Active Sports – Level 2 Community Activator Coach – Pass
- Simon Smith, Quantum – Level 3 Team Leader – Pass
- George Coker, LVS – Level 4 Sports Coach – Pass
- Harley James, PSD Childcare – Level 4 Sports Coach – Pass
- Jack Hingston, Game On Sports Coaching – Level 2 Community Activator Coach – Pass
We are so proud of all of our learners and the mentors supporting them. Their achievements reflect resilience, commitment, and a passion for lifelong learning.
If you’d like to reach out, make a referral or share feedback, you can contact us at: [email protected] or 01344 987 877
Until next time, The Storyy Team
