What you need to know
How many young people are in a group?
Group sizes are dependent on the needs of the learners. Some groups will include as little as three learners, but our maximum group size is 9 young people. These small groups ensure all students have access to teaching staff on a maximum 1:3 basis.
Do you provide all resources and equipment?
Yes, we do. Hopefields fully resource the project, there are no hidden costs for schools, parents or carers. Specialist equipment, stationery and all activities are included. We do ask that young people bring sturdy boots and/or wellies and warm clothing to the sessions with animals, but again, we can provide these items if necessary. All transportation to and from locations during the educational day is provided in our Hopefields minibus.
How much does this cost?
The daily cost of a young person enrolled on the program is £95. This covers the full use of specialist equipment, all learning materials, exam board entry and the accreditation certification. There are discounted rates available to those in need. We do not charge an additional premium for out of area referral, as we believe all young people have a right to quality first teaching and education provision, wherever they reside in the Tees Valley or neighbouring authorities.
Please contact us for further information on pricing at referral stage.
Is lunch provided for learners?
Both lunch and snacks are provided for learners, as are hot drinks and water, alongside snacks such as fruit and crackers.
Lunch consists of a hot meal or sandwich, with a side salad, and healthy accompaniments. We cater for all dietary requirements.
Energy drinks are not permitted on site.
Where are you located?
Hopefields is based in Thornaby, Stockton on Tees, in the Tees Valley. We are proud to serve the young people and the communities in the area. We work with young people across the Tees Valley, and also from North Yorkshire, Durham and within the North East.
Do you provide transport for students?
Transportation is provided and arranged where necessary with the host referrer. We can assist you with this, utilising our Hopefields minibus. Contact us to confirm locations and prices.
How do you keep in touch with schools/providers/parents and carers?
Weekly reports (with accompanying images and pupil voice) are written by the teaching staff and young people, then collated by the Directors, using CPOMS information and verbal testimonials. The reports are then shared to school staff and care givers on a weekly basis.
Are you fully insured?
Yes, Hopefields are fully insured above Government and Local Authority limits. Our insurance certificate is displayed in our centre and is available for your peace of mind.
All staff are enhanced DBS checked and registered on the update service, whilst all documentation is held on the Single Central Record. Staff sign a confidentiality agreement, within which they also agree to abide by the requirements laid out in our Data Management policy.
Our policies are reviewed and updated regularly, in advance of continuing professional development and training for all staff. All staff are level three Safeguarding and Team Teach trained.
Are mobile phones allowed on site?
No. Staff have access to a mobile phone for emergency purposes as we teach across the community and off site, but mobile phones will not be visible at Hopefields during teaching/contact time.
Young people can bring a mobile phone to Hopefields, but upon entering the building the phone will be placed in a locked cabinet, and returned at the end of the day. These measures are to keep all young people safe and promote conversation and a learning ethos.