About Sparks Learning Hub

Flexible Education Provision

Sparks Learning Limited is a unique flexible learning hub, devoted to igniting learners’ interest and engagement with their own learning journeys. Sparks Learning is an alternative provision hub based on the edge of Dartmoor, in Ashburton, Devon. We work with parents, local schools and local authorities to support learners who are looking for an alternative to a mainstream school environment. Our teachers are experienced, gentle and professional and seek to spark the passion to become lifelong learners. We use creative methods to empower students and motivate them to become the best versions of themselves. We nurture strong relationships and work together to build great futures. Our flexible approach enables students to follow specialist pathways to suit their individual needs and aspirations.

Academic Sessions

"M attended Sparks for several months after finding it difficult in mainstream education. He quickly settled into Sparks and formed some good relationships with staff who were always very welcoming. In order to meet M’s needs Sparks were able to provide M with a more bespoke timetable. This included lots of physical activities such as tennis, swimming, canoeing, paddle boarding, archery (to name but a few) which M really enjoyed.
When M did have any struggles, he was always supported with a therapeutic approach and I was always provided with information as to what had happened. The team would then quickly move on from this and allow M to start each new day afresh.

Despite reaching the point of complete school refusal, M never missed a day at Sparks which is testament to how he enjoyed his time with them. I feel that Sparks have done an excellent job enabling M to get back into a better mindset and prepare him for his move to a more permanent setting. I could not have asked for more."

(Carer of an AP Student)

"A's time at the hub has been without a doubt the most positive and constructive experience of her entire secondary education! Sparks is providing a much needed space for children to reset and reengage. A is now set to take on the next challenge and to head into further education with her head held high."

(Parent of a GCSE student)

“I asked F what the best thing was that she'd got out of her time at Sparks and she said confidence and how she'd found her voice.

I really can't thank you all enough - I feel like F has got herself back and more than that she has totally blossomed under your care. She is confident as a learner, she knows who she is and what she values, she knows how to hold herself and how to work things out and how to ask for and lean into support.

F arrived at Sparks feeling pretty low, feeling shut down from her time at secondary school, very unconfident as a learner and full of self doubt and anxiety. She has truly blossomed into a self-confident, happy, grounded, feisty, funny teenager this last year and she is way more resilient as a learner - that is such a gift - Thank you!”

(Parent of a KS3 Student)

Mission Statement

Sparks Learning offers a nurturing environment for young people struggling with the pressures of mainstream educational settings. As an alternative educational establishment founded by experienced, qualified teachers, we understand the current pressures on teenagers’ mental health. We tailor our sessions to ensure individual needs are incorporated, and young people are provided with an exciting, broad curriculum which reflects their aspirations and personal goals; at the same time as nurturing their mental health needs with sensitive, flexible and bespoke targets to enable all learners to flourish and make progress.

Curriculum

Our curriculum is driven by our belief in strong communication skills and empathy for others in society. These aspects are explicitly taught alongside strategies to help develop and nurture areas of specific individual need. We incorporate daily English and Maths, PSHE and Personal Development sessions into our activities and work towards Functional Skills or GCSE qualifications, taught by experienced specialist teachers, so that all learners can leave us with the skills and knowledge to move to the next stages of their lives.

During our sessions, young people will have the opportunity to opt for therapeutic enrichment courses in a range of additional specialist areas; some of which could lead to additional qualifications such as: NICAS Climbing Award; AQA Unit Awards in fields such as Leisure and Recreation; Environmental Science; Art and Design; Work Related Learning; or Animal Care. These sessions are designed to help personal growth and individual development goals. We work in a holistic manner to meet our young people where they are, and guide them to positive futures.

Enrichment Therapy

The teachers take time out every day to make sure you are okay. They are kind and caring and help me with my work and they are great fun. It's more laid back at Sparks and I can go for time out whenever I need to. The afternoon enrichment programme is great fun and always changing so we get to do lots of exciting activities. I feel like I am happier here and able to do more work than at school.

(Yr 8 Student)

What I like about Sparks is the really friendly staff who are willing to help with work and worries. A nice location and a calm working environment. A great way to try new things and make friends along the way. Sparks has helped me feel more confident and ready to return to mainstream school with a stronger mental mindset and social skills.

(Yr 9 Student)

Fun, chilled and every day has been different. I like the mix of academic and enrichment activities.

(Yr 11 Student

"The teachers at Sparks Learning make the lessons both fact filled and fun filled. My children experience dedication and time. This has had a huge impact on their confidence. They see every day as a brilliant opportunity. As a parent, I appreciate everything Sparks Learning has to offer. They have created such an amazing and unique learning environment"

(Parent of a KS4 Student)