
THE COTSWOLD PROJECT
Find Your Happy Place
Holistic CIC

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Alternative Provision for Oxfordshire & Gloucestershire
A therapeutic, nature‑based Alternative Provision in the Cotswolds offering tuition, mentoring, equine‑assisted learning, animal‑assisted therapy, art therapy and play therapy for children and young people.
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A Calm, Therapeutic Environment Where Children Can Re‑Engage, Regulate and Thrive
The Cotswold Project Holistic CIC provides trauma‑informed, SEMH‑focused Alternative Provision for pupils who need a safe, nurturing space to rebuild confidence, develop emotional regulation and reconnect with learning. Located at Baywell Farm in Charlbury, West Oxfordshire, we support children from across Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire and the wider Cotswolds.
Our approach blends education, therapeutic intervention and nature‑based experiences, creating a highly personalised pathway for each young person.
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What We Offer
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Therapeutic Alternative Provision Tailored to Each Child
We provide a flexible, relational and outcomes‑focused offer that aligns with the needs of local authorities, schools and families.
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Tuition & Functional Skills
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1:1 or small-group tuition
Functional English & Maths
Re-engagement in learning
Confidence-building academic support
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Mentoring & SEMH Support
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Trauma-informed mentoring
Emotional regulation strategies
Relationship-based practice
Support for anxiety, school refusal and dysregulation
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Equine Therapy & Equine-Assisted Learning
Ground-based equine sessions
Confidence, communication and emotional awareness
Regulation through rhythm, routine and connection
Suitable for pupils with SEMH, anxiety or trauma histories
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Animal Care & Animal Assisted Therapy
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Daily care routines
Responsibility, empathy and sensory regulation
Therapeutic interactions with animals
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Art Therapy & Play Therapy​
Creative therapeutic interventions​
Safe expression of emotions
Trauyma-informed, child-led sessions
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Who We Support
We work with children and young people aged 5+, who may be experiencing:
SEMH needs
Anxiety or school refusal
Trauma or attachment difficulties
Low confidence or self-esteem
Dysregulation or difficulties in mainstream settings
Need for a phased reintegration pathwyay
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Our provision is suitable for short-term, medium-term or long-term placements, depending on need.
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Why Schools and Local Authorities Choose Us
Trauma‑informed, therapeutic practice
Highly relational, consistent staffing
Calm, rural environment ideal for regulation
Clear communication and progress reporting
Flexible timetables and personalised pathways
Strong outcomes in engagement, attendance and emotional wellbeing
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We work closely with Oxfordshire County Council, Gloucestershire County Council, SENCOs, DSLs and pastoral teams to ensure each placement is safe, appropriate and effective.
Our Setting in the Cotswolds
Based on a peaceful farm in Charlbury, our environment includes:
Indoor learning spaces
Outdoor classrooms
Stables and equine areas
Small‑animal care areas
Woodland and nature‑based activity zones
his setting supports sensory regulation, emotional safety and meaningful connection with animals and nature.
How to Make a Referral
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We accept referrals from:
Local authorities
Schools
SENCOs and pastoral teams
Social care
Families (with professional involvement)
Our referral process is simple, transparent and responsive. We offer visits, assessments and trial sessions to ensure the right fit.
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To discuss a placement or arrange a visit, please get in touch. We’re here to support children and young people to feel safe, valued and ready to learn again.
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