East of England

Circles Network offers alternative education to children and young people who learn best in environments that suit their needs. Working closely with families, guardians, schools and colleges we design and deliver courses based on demand.

Typically the young people who go through the Academy are aged between 11-25, where we help them to progress their education in a supportive environment.

The majority of those attending the Academy are at mainstream school, but for whatever reason they’re not attending and are therefore in need of an interim education plan.

Whilst young people are with us, we work to provide them with, and build, the skills they need to help them return back to mainstream schooling. Often this can be whilst a diagnosis or EHCP is being put together, which can take some time.

We firmly believe that by attending our alternative provisions they’re able to remain social and develop skills which is far better for them than not attending anything at all.

Flexible and personalised, offering one-to-one and small group sessions to ensure every learner can engage in a way that meets their individual needs.

Personal & Social Development
We create space for learners to explore what community means to them and build confidence in everyday life. This might include:

• Understanding friendships, boundaries, and ways to manage challenges.
  
• Exploring relationships, the law, and personal safety where relevant.
• Learning about human rights and protected characteristics.
• Building healthy lifestyles through fitness and mental wellbeing activities.
• Leading or joining community projects and helping others.

Preparing for the Future
We help young people discover their strengths and prepare for what’s next – whether that’s education, work, or independent living. This could involve:

• Mentoring to explore interests and future goals.
• Individual plans with regular reviews and updates.
• Practical workshops on CV writing, interviews, and job searching.
• Work placements and volunteering for real-world experience.
• ASDAN-accredited vocational training and industry-specific certifications.

Community Engagement
We celebrate young people’s skills and work with local businesses to create inclusive opportunities. Through partnerships with colleges, training providers, and employers, we open pathways into education, volunteering and work.
At our hub, learners also gain essential life skills, such as cooking, budgeting, managing bills, laundry, and maintaining a clean-living space.

Accredited Learning
We provide ASDAN-accredited courses and support learners in achieving qualifications in core subjects, adapting the pace and style of learning to suit individual needs.

Our role is to provide opportunities that reflect each young person’s strengths, interests, and future goals. We take time to understand each learner’s needs and adapt support accordingly. Through one-to-one and small group sessions, we ensure every young person can engage in a way that works best for them.

Personal & Social Development
We help young people explore their role in the community and build confidence through essential life skills. This includes forming positive relationships, making safe choices online and offline, and promoting wellbeing through healthy habits and self care.
Our approach develops resilience, independence, and a strong sense of belonging, preparing learners to thrive in education and beyond.

Vocational Opportunities
We can offer a fully functional salon and gift shop within an accessible building. This offers young people hands-on vocational experiences in a safe, nurturing environment, giving them a sense of purpose and real-world engagement.
In addition to our fully equipped salon, we provide vocational opportunities across a range of disciplines, including gardening, hospitality, sports and fitness, as well as English and Mathematics.

Accredited Learning
We provide ASDAN-accredited courses and support learners in achieving qualifications in core subjects, adapting the pace and style of learning to suit individual needs.

Preparing for the Future
We work closely with young people to support their reintegration into education. Our aim is to provide the guidance and opportunities they need so that, with the right support, they can return to learning successfully and continue to progress in their educational journey.

All of our staff are trained in de-escalation via the PROACT-SCIPr-UK® model, which is a proactive and therapeutic approach for crisis intervention and prevention – which is key to any care setting.
Our teams are also undergoing ‘train the trainer’ training to facilitate the roll out of the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism. Visit our Academy page to read more about the Oliver McGown campaign.