The Island Project provides bespoke pastoral support and alternative education for ages 8-18 including NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) and SEMH (Social, Emotional Mental Health). The Project is based on a 3-acre farm located in Draycott, Derby. The project is educationally and socially inclusive, based on a unique 3-acre therapeutic farming site housing donkeys, llamas, goats, sheep, pigs, ducks, rabbits, cats, ferrets as well as chickens.
Converted stables and portacabins make up our different learning zones. 2 converted containers are used as a woodwork workshop, a courtyard for sports as well as a large café. This environment at The Island Project has been designed so that the learners can relax in calm and less rigid learning space.
Most learners are at serious risk of underachievement and for most, conventional mainstream education has failed to engage them. Many students who are unable to cope with a classroom environment find that they thrive in more therapeutic surrounding utilising animal-assisted projects and outside of the classroom-based sessions.
Qualifications/Outcomes
Students attending The Island Project can undertake the ‘Skills for Working in Animal Care Industries’ Aim Award. Students have the opportunity to work through the curriculum, from an Entry Level 3 Award through to a Level 2 Diploma.
Venue Address
Land Opposite Park View, Draycott, DE72 3PD
Website: https://islandproject.co.uk/
What Should I Wear?
The Island Project is an outdoor farming provision so many activities will take places outside. The weather can be unpredictable so we recommend bringing clothing that will ensure that you are comfortable during your time at provision.
In the Winter months, we strongly recommend a warm, waterproof coat, boots, gloves, a hat and an extra pair of socks. In the Summer months we would advise bringing a sun hat, and a waterproof coat, just in case.
Post 16 destinations/careers:
Due to the range of activities that students are offered at this provision, the post 16 progression opportunities are countless. Students could choose to pursue careers in animal care, construction or agriculture/horticulture.
Many students choose to continue their studies surrounding animals at Derby College's Broomfield Site.
Useful resources and links:
For more information about the provision please visit the website at
For information on course availability please get in touch with Junction 16.
Meet The Team
Jacqui Johnson - Director
Alison Latimer - Director, DSL and Tutor
Amy Martinson - Tutor
Zoey Chadwick - Tutor
Roy Johnson - Tutor
Jonny Goodman - Tutor
Wendy Scholes - Tutor
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