Willowbank at Hadlow
Inspiring the next generation, one cast at a time.
Based at Hadlow Fisheries in Tunbridge Wells, Willowbank at Hadlow brings together a passion for angling, outdoor education and a belief that every young person deserves the opportunity to succeed.
Led by Kev, Head of Willowbank at Hadlow, the provision benefits from years of angling knowledge and expertise. Well known and respected within the angling world, Kev brings his experience, enthusiasm and genuine love of fishing to every session. His passion is not simply about teaching young people how to fish, but about using angling to inspire confidence, build relationships and open up new possibilities.
Kev has grown with Willowbank, developing his approach alongside the needs of the vulnerable learners we support. By combining his specialist knowledge with the Willowbank way, he has helped us extend our reach and create more opportunities for young people who may need a different approach to education.
Working alongside both mainstream and specialist schools, our Hadlow provision offers tailored outdoor learning experiences that meet learners where they are. Whether a young person is picking up a fishing rod for the first time, developing an existing interest or working towards a personal goal, we create a welcoming environment where they can feel supported, understood and proud of what they achieve.
Learning beyond the classroom
At Hadlow, angling is much more than a sport. It is a way to connect with young people, spark curiosity and make learning meaningful.
Through fishing and outdoor education, learners can develop practical skills while exploring the natural environment, problem-solving, teamwork, patience and personal development. The peaceful surroundings of Hadlow Fisheries provide a different kind of learning space, one where young people can step away from the pressures of a traditional classroom and engage at their own pace.
Our sessions are designed around individual needs and interests, combining hands-on experiences with opportunities for academic and skills-based learning. Where appropriate, learners can work towards AQA Unit Award Scheme certificates and explore a BTEC qualification pathway, helping them recognise their progress and build confidence in their abilities.
We work closely with host schools and other professionals to ensure that each learner’s experience is purposeful, personalised and connected to their wider education journey.
Kev's passion,
the willowbank
way
Kev’s knowledge of angling is matched by his commitment to helping young people discover what they are capable of. He understands that the smallest moments can lead to the biggest changes, whether that is a learner making their first cast, catching their first fish or finding the confidence to have a conversation.
His approach is patient, encouraging and rooted in genuine relationships. By sharing his passion for angling with the next generation, Kev creates opportunities for young people to develop new interests, experience success and see themselves in a different light.
As Willowbank has grown, Kev has continued to develop the Hadlow provision to respond to the needs of vulnerable learners, bringing together his expertise and our shared belief that education should be flexible, meaningful and accessible to all.
Growing Opportunities with Hadlow College
Our relationship with Hadlow College goes beyond the learning that takes place at the fisheries. By working closely together, we are able to help young people explore what their next steps could look like and connect their experiences at Willowbank with future education opportunities.
This partnership creates exciting possibilities for learners across all of our provisions, not just those attending Willowbank at Hadlow. Young people who have developed confidence, interests and practical skills through our outdoor education offer can be supported to explore the courses and opportunities available at Hadlow College.
For some, this may mean discovering a passion for land-based learning, animal care, horticulture or another area of study. For others, it may simply be the first time they can picture themselves taking that next step into further education.
By building these connections, we can help learners see that their journey does not end with Willowbank. The skills they develop, the interests they discover and the confidence they build can become the foundations for something much bigger.
We are excited to continue growing this relationship and creating meaningful pathways that give young people across Willowbank more opportunities to explore their future.
What makes
Hadlow special
Learning with Purpose
BTEC Qualification Pathway
Where appropriate, learners can work towards a BTEC qualification pathway that combines academic learning with practical outdoor experiences. We support young people to develop knowledge, skills and confidence in a setting that helps learning feel relevant and achievable.
Celebrating Progress
AQA Unit Award Scheme
We recognise that every achievement matters. Through tailored AQA Unit Award Scheme opportunities, learners can gain certificates that celebrate their progress in angling, outdoor skills, practical activities and personal development.
Supporting the Next Step
Progression and Onward Destinations
We work closely with mainstream and specialist schools, families and professionals to support each learner’s individual journey. Whether their next step is reintegration into a school setting, further education, vocational learning or another positive destination, we focus on building the skills and confidence to help them move forward.
Our close relationship with Hadlow College also creates opportunities for learners from across Willowbank’s provisions to explore further education and the courses available there. By connecting outdoor learning with future study options, we can help young people discover new interests, understand their choices and feel more confident about taking their next step.
Space to Learn and Grow
Wellbeing and Confidence
The natural surroundings of Hadlow Fisheries offer young people the chance to slow down, connect with nature and experience learning in a different way. Through positive relationships, practical experiences and the focus that angling can provide, we support confidence, emotional wellbeing and a sense of achievement.
Part of the Willowbank Family
As part of Willowbank Generation, Willowbank at Hadlow shares the same commitment to doing education differently. We believe that every young person deserves to be seen, heard and understood, and that the right environment, relationships and opportunities can open doors that may once have felt closed.
With Kev’s expertise and passion leading the way, our Hadlow provision continues to grow, helping us reach more young people and inspire the next generation through the power of angling and outdoor learning.
Our partnership with Hadlow College strengthens that journey even further, creating opportunities for learners across the Willowbank family to explore future courses, develop their interests and take meaningful steps towards their next destination.
More than fishing. More than a classroom. A place to discover what is possible.
