Summer residential at Jamie’s Farm

During the last academic year, due to Covid-19 restrictions, trips to Jamie’s Farm were sadly delayed; however, by late Spring we were given the go-ahead and, thanks to the generosity of KIT donors, we were able to undertake two trips in May and August, allowing a total of 24 KAA students to benefit from Jamie’s magic recipe of farming, family and therapy!

It became apparent that the opportunity to visit one of Jamie’s Farms was more valuable than ever after lockdown for KAA’s most vulnerable students. Our dedicated teaching staff identified those in most danger of social or academic exclusion as evidenced by one or more of the following risk factors: lack of engagement, poor attendance and attainment, self-esteem and mental well-being issues, underdeveloped life skills and challenging behaviour.

I want to remember that on the farm, I am more confident than I realise and I’m better at conversing than I think I am. When I get back to school, I will stop reacting negatively to people when they do something wrong or are rude to me. I’ll start being patient and take the high road as a sign of maturity.’

Nora

The week-long stays at farms in Lewes and Hereford were genuinely transformative for students, but the impact has not stopped there. Our data shows that the relationships formed and the new and better ‘versions’ of  themselves that students forged on the farms continue back in the school environment. Evaluations show that there has continued to be a long-term reduction in attendance issues of over 50% and an 83% improvement in self-esteem.

If you would like to help fund another transformative experience for a KAA student, please contact: Eleni Goulandris at eleni.goulandris@kaatrust.org.uk