Toucan Flexi School – Transforming Education for Children
At Toucan, we believe that every child deserves an education that meets their unique needs and learning style. Our Flexi School (also known as an Alternative Provision / AP) offers a part-time alternative to mainstream education alone, specially designed for children with any additional need for support, including dyslexia and SEND, providing the compassionate and individualised support they need to reach their full potential. Located in Newcastle and Gateshead, our two flexi schools and forest school serve children aged 5-15 with the flexibility to attend from as little as half a day per week, alongside their usual education.
What is a Flexi School?
Part-time flexi schooling up to a maximum of 3 days per week provides specialist education and support for children who benefit from a more personalised approach. Unlike traditional schools, our flexi school is a relaxed, home-like environment where students feel safe and encouraged to be themselves. Each day follows a school-like structure, with designated times for lessons, breaks, and meals, but our unique atmosphere and approach set us apart:
Informal Learning Environment:
Teachers are called by their first names, there is no uniform, and children wear their comfiest clothes, even slippers!
Small Class Sizes:
With low student-to-teacher ratios, we offer extensive one-on-one support to ensure each child’s needs are met.
Freedom to Move:
Children can move freely within the classroom, allowing them to focus and engage in a way that suits them best.
Sensory and Relaxation Aids:
Days can begins with yoga and meditation, and sensory tools are available at every table, often complemented by calming music.
Thank you for taking a risk on our child. Your impact has transformed us as a family, and we appreciate you all more than you’ll ever know! Keep transforming lives, one family at a time.
Huge thanks for knowing my child so well, for providing an educational environment where he can unmask and more than that, that he can thrive in. He comes home full of stories of adventure, fun, learning and friendship.
Innovative and Inclusive Education
At Toucan, we understand that neurodivergent children learn best when they feel relaxed and understood. Our experienced SEND teaching team creates an inclusive, nurturing space that encourages academic growth. By grouping students by similar age and ability, we enable social and educational engagement that suits each child’s development level. Our innovative, proven teaching methods often lead to accelerated progress, providing children with a sense of accomplishment and confidence.
Bespoke Curriculum for Individual Growth
Every child’s journey at Toucan begins with a comprehensive assessment to develop a bespoke curriculum that fills any learning gaps while aligning with their regular school targets. We can work closely with each child’s primary school to create a supportive, coordinated learning plan. This tailored curriculum ensures that children continue to build their knowledge in key subject areas at a pace suited to their unique learning style.
Frequent Asked Questions
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What is a flexi school, and how is it different from a traditional school?
The Toucan flexi school offers flexible, part-time attendance options and is designed to cater to the unique needs of children who benefit from specialised support. Unlike traditional schools, our flexi school provides a relaxed, home-like environment with small class sizes, individualised learning plans, and a focus on sensory and therapeutic support.
Who can attend Toucan’s Flexi School?
Our flexi school supports children aged 5-15 who would benefit from specialised support, including those with (and without) dyslexia, autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent profiles. We work with students who need additional educational support outside of mainstream schooling and welcome children who attend on a part-time basis up to 3 days per week.
How often do students attend, and can we choose the schedule?
Students can attend from as little as half a day per week to a few days each week, depending on their individual needs. We work with families to create a schedule that best supports each child’s education and well-being, and if they are on-roll with a school in coordination with their curriculum goals if needed and suitable.
How do you develop the curriculum for each child?
We start with an assessment to identify each child’s strengths, learning gaps, and specific needs. Using this information, we create a tailored curriculum providing targeted support in areas where they need extra help. Our approach is dynamic and can be adjusted as the child progresses.
Can my child transition back to full-time mainstream school after attending?
Yes, many of our students use our flexi school as a supplement to their mainstream education, and the skills they develop can help them reintegrate into full-time schooling when appropriate. Our goal is to build their confidence and fill learning gaps so they can succeed wherever they choose to continue their education.
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What types of therapeutic support do you offer?
Our skilled therapy team offers services including occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, and physiotherapy. Each child receives an individualised therapy plan if needed that complements their learning, focusing on building confidence, social skills, and coping strategies. We also incorporate mindfulness practices like yoga and meditation.
How do you ensure communication with parents and schools?
We keep parents updated with detailed progress reports at the end of each full term and use the DoJo system for regular updates. We can also work closely with the child’s main school, regular visits and observations from their teachers to assist with continuity of learning.
Will my child still be able to follow the National Curriculum?
Yes, our curriculum generally aligns with the National Curriculum, though it is adapted to suit each child’s individual learning style and needs. We focus on filling in any learning gaps while still covering key subjects and skills relevant to their main school targets.
How are children supported socially at the flexi school?
We encourage social interaction through group activities, community outings, and small group projects. Children are grouped by similar age and ability, allowing them to form friendships and develop social skills in a supportive environment.
How do I know if flexi schooling is right for my child?
Flexi schooling can be ideal for children who need a smaller, more personalised learning environment to thrive academically and emotionally. If your child experiences challenges in a traditional school setting or requires specialised support, our flexi school may provide the supportive environment they need.
Start your journey today, speak with our team!
Everyone wants the best for their children, by speaking with our specialist support team you’ll be starting that journey. We can guide you through the process and explain how we can support you and your child.
