Education, Training and Employment

“Support vulnerable children, young people and their families in a place where they are wanted, cared for, and valued.”

Our vision is to offer children and adults an opportunity to have a ‘brighter view’ on life through a range of activities on offer in a natural farm setting.

We aim to improve the access of vulnerable young people and children, particularly those aged between 5– 18 to education, training and employment through practical land-based learning.

Our mission is to provide a relaxed and friendly service that can offer land-based activities for learning, building positive relationships and improving well-being. Whilst other care farms exist there are not enough to provide for the number of children that need additional support through the school system.

The process is such that schools and facilities are currently not always aware that there is an alternative and children are withdrawn from school or refuse to attend due to their needs not being met. 

For some, homeschooling is an option; but in many cases, homes are not able to meet the child’s needs either. Not only would we be able to offer support to those within mainstream education, but also to those who have felt it necessary to leave the system.

In late 2021 Brightview Farm undertook an extensive review and through consultation with identified beneficiaries and local communities. We reached a number of key conclusions:

• Almost one in five young people in parts of Essex lack work, education or training. Local Authorities therefore support programmes to improve young people’s attainment and levels of employment in line with national indicators.
• Essex organisations such as YMCA, Hope House Essex, Essex Partnership, Writtle University Agricultural College and Essex CYP have all highlighted a gap in provision for young people that is both practical and accessible.
• Local funders, such as Essex Community Foundation, are searching for projects that improve the long-term outcomes and independence of young people.
• Young people are interested and stimulated by land-based and outdoor learning opportunities, in particular those that lead to employment and increased self-esteem.
• Unless young people are able to attend a college or University, there are currently few opportunities to learn new skills in land-based activities, such as agriculture, equine, conservation and horticulture. These have great appeal and additionally support the current movement in environmental awareness.