Willowbank in North Kent
The Willowbank way, reaching more young people.
Willowbank at North Kent was created to bring our approach to outdoor education to more young people, giving them the opportunity to learn, grow and experience success in an environment that works for them
.
Led by Dan, Head of North Kent Willowbank, the provision combines his passion for supporting young people with the experience and values of the wider Willowbank family. Working closely with host schools, we create meaningful learning opportunities that bring together education, practical skills and the benefits of spending time outdoors.
With access to two sites across North Kent, one in Sittingbourne and one on the Isle of Sheppey, we can offer a range of outdoor experiences that respond to the needs and interests of our learners. Whether they are discovering a new skill, working towards an achievement or simply finding the confidence to try something different, our focus is always on the individual.
Dan is often joined by our much-loved therapy dog, Oakley, who has a special way of making young people feel welcome. Oakley is a familiar face across the provision and an important part of the calm, friendly atmosphere we work hard to create.
Learning beyond the classroom
Our North Kent provision offers a blend of outdoor education, fishing, practical learning and academic opportunities. We understand that traditional classroom environments do not work for every young person, and that a different setting can make all the difference to their engagement, confidence and willingness to learn.
Through our outdoor learning experiences, learners can develop practical skills while exploring wider areas of learning, including the natural environment, teamwork, problem-solving and personal development. We also offer opportunities to work towards AQA Unit Award Scheme certificates and, where appropriate, a BTEC qualification pathway.
These achievements give young people the chance to recognise their progress and build confidence in their abilities. We work closely with host schools and other professionals to ensure that learning is tailored to individual needs and supports each young person’s next steps.
Recognised for Making a Difference
We are proud that the work taking place at North Kent has been recognised by Early Help and the local authority. This recognition reflects the dedication of our team and the positive impact that a flexible, relationship-led approach can have on young people and their families.
For us, it is about more than delivering activities. It is about creating a place where young people feel understood, where their strengths are recognised and where they are given the opportunity to experience education in a different way.
Opportunities Beyond Term Time
Our commitment to young people does not stop when the school term ends. Alongside our term-time education offer, we are passionate about creating opportunities for children and young people to access outdoor experiences during the school holidays.
Through our HAF opportunities and other holiday activities, we provide engaging sessions that encourage young people to get outside, try new things, make connections and enjoy the benefits of being active in nature.
From fishing and outdoor adventures to practical activities and shared experiences, our holiday programmes are designed to be welcoming, inclusive and full of opportunities to build confidence and have fun.
We are proud to work alongside local partners to help make these experiences accessible to more young people and families across North Kent.
What makes north Kent
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 outdoor skills, practical activities and personal development.
Supporting the Next Step
Progression Pathways
We work closely with host 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.
Space to Learn and Grow
Wellbeing and Confidence
Our outdoor environments offer young people the chance to step away from the pressures of a traditional classroom and engage with learning in a different way. Through positive relationships, practical experiences and time spent in nature, we support confidence, emotional wellbeing and a sense of achievement.
Part of the Willowbank Family
As part of Willowbank Generation, North Kent 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.
From our term-time provision to our holiday programmes, we continue to grow our offer in response to the needs of young people and the communities we support.
Different environments. Meaningful opportunities. The same Willowbank belief in every young person.
