A Learning Place (ALP) in Waterbeach offers part-time placements for young people who can't attend mainstream school. ALP provides a safe & supportive space that enables young people to enjoy learning at various levels, including working towards GCSEs.
This activity is good for wellbeing because
- it enables young people to get back into education and rediscover an interest in learning;
- a learner-centred approach boosts confidence and self-esteem;
- working alongside other learners, friendships form that reduce social isolation.
"It's learning but in a much less stressful way. I've never liked school but this is just an amazing low anxiety way to learn and instead of being awake all night and crying on my way in like I did in mainstream I actually find myself enjoying it and being excited!"
How to contact
Where to go
A Learning Place
Unit 1C
Sunrise Business Park
Flint Lane
Waterbeach
CB25 9QZ
What to expect
The Waterbeach Centre offers part-time placements (3-5 half days per week) for young people in school years 7 and upwards who are not able to attend mainstream education. This can be for a variety of reasons including Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA); challenging behaviour; Special Educational Needs (SEN) including neurodivergence; anxiety and depression; or because English is not their first language.
Staff comprises qualified and experienced English, Maths, Science and ESOL teachers, skilled Learning Support Assistants and tutors, plus gentle wellbeing dogs. A Learning Place provides a supportive environment where learners achieve academically, grow in confidence and make friends.
Learners can be supported at various levels - including working towards GCSE exams. As well as academic subjects, learners also participate in a variety of enrichment activities and can work towards awards in areas such as Hairdressing, Photography or Art.
Here is a typical morning session:
9.30am - arrival
9.45am - lesson 1
10.30am - break
10.40am - lesson 2
11.25am - break
11.35am - enrichment
12.00noon - end of morning and pick up.
More information
A Learning Place is not a school and does not provide full-time education; it is a part-time Alternative Education provider. Learners are either electively home educated or on roll at a local state school that retains all safeguarding and other statutory responsibilities. Placements should always be part of a package of full time education.
All staff and volunteers are Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checked.
If you would like to see A Learning Place's safeguarding policy and procedures, they are available on request via email.
Free taster sessions are offered so you can experience A Learning Place for yourself.
Learner places can be funded by their school, Cambridgeshire County Council or privately by parents/guardians.
How to contact
Where to go
A Learning Place
Unit 1C
Sunrise Business Park
Flint Lane
Waterbeach
CB25 9QZ
