ReachOut

ReachOut is a not-for-profit Community Interest Company in Cornwall, offering alternative education and support for young people who may need a smaller, more nurturing approach to learning. It is based in St Austell town centre.

ReachOut offers a Programme of Study for young people aged 15 to 18, or up to 25 for young people with an EHCP. The programme is delivered through Cornwall Adult Education and provides an alternative education pathway for young people who may find mainstream education difficult to access.

This provision may be particularly helpful for young people experiencing anxiety, low confidence, low self-esteem, communication difficulties, or challenges engaging in larger education settings. Learning takes place in small groups, usually with no more than 20 students, allowing staff to offer a more personalised and supportive approach.

The Programme

gives young people the opportunity to build confidence, develop practical skills, gain recognised qualifications, make friendships and think about their next steps in education, training or employment.

As part of the course, students study English and Maths in line with Department for Education expectations. They may also work towards Level 1 and Level 2 Arts Award qualifications, employability skills qualifications, independent living skills, trips and visits, work experience, and activities designed to support personal development.

Work Experience

ReachOut also provides work experience opportunities through its onsite Rising Stars café and commercial kitchen, which operates on Wednesdays during term time.

Young people can gain hands-on experience in catering, food preparation and customer service. Students also work towards an industry-standard Food Safety and Hygiene certificate.

Where possible, ReachOut also supports students to access work experience with local businesses, matched to their interests, strengths and future career goals.

Springboard

Springboard is a one-day-a-week early engagement programme for young people aged 13 to 16.

It may be suitable for young people who are electively home educated and looking for a gentle route back into structured learning. It may also support young people who are struggling in mainstream school due to anxiety, low self-esteem, reduced confidence, or difficulty communicating with others.

The programme offers a supportive stepping stone for young people who may need a smaller, more nurturing environment before moving towards further education, training or other provision.