sben members Pinc College are thrilled to announce the launch of a new initiative by Pinc Education Group, creators of the innovative Art College, Pinc College.

In collaboration with Staffordshire Wildlife Trust and building on eight years of transformative success, Pinc Woodlands College offers a unique Countryside and Wildlife curriculum, designed to support neurodivergent students.

At Pinc Woodlands College, we prioritise both education and the achievements our students will gain beyond their time with us. We start by helping each student identify their goals and aspirations, dedicating ourselves to supporting them every step of the way.

Our students will complete level two and 3 Diplomas enabling access to University, supporting social mobility and raising aspirations.

Our Wildlife and Countryside curriculum provides diverse opportunities for students to make informed decisions about their future. Throughout their time at Pinc, we offer personalised support to clarify future options, provide real-world learning experiences in conservation, horticulture and eco careers, facilitate work placements, assist with journey planning, and build travel confidence. Students can then progress to a Supported Internship, apprenticeships , employment and Further/Higher education.

Pinc, has demonstrated that real world learning environments and local asset based approaches, produce valuable outcomes for Neurodivergent students. In 2024, the college decided to extend this effective model to other sectors. After thorough research and discussions, Lisa Alberti, CEO and founder of Pinc College and Pinc Education Group, and Rachel Madden, Head of Pinc Woodlands College, combined their passions for supporting SEND students in further education, employment, sustainability, and the environment.

Their key question was: “How can we harness our students passions for sustainability and the environment, helping them on a supported and nurturing journey into long-term careers?” The answer: through local wildlife and countryside.

Wildlife and countryside learning is an innovative approach to engaging neurodiverse students. Wellbeing is key. Research suggests this method can be particularly beneficial for those with early childhood trauma, through the gentle visuals, sounds and rhythms of the outdoors.

The countryside and its wildlife offer rich opportunities for language development, executive functions, sensory desensitization, skill development, fine and gross motor development, and peer bonding. Historical and clinical perspectives explain how wildlife and the countryside can help neurodiverse children and teens develop a sense of community, meaning, and purpose, along with adaptive functions for a successful life.

Connecting with nature offers numerous benefits. By promoting environmental awareness and improving our local communities, we help individuals manage life and mental health challenges, enhance communication skills, and increase self-awareness.

Through our partnership with Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, we aim to foster a unique culture that improves wellbeing, provides recognised qualifications, offers access to paid employment and apprenticeships, and nurtures environmental stewardship.

Jo Olivant, Deputy Chief Executive at Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, said: “We’re very excited to be working with Pinc Woodlands College and hosting their students at our Wolseley Centre site. The site attracts thousands of visitors each year; schools, families and nature lovers all enjoy the beautiful grounds and thriving cafe.

“Caring for The Wolseley Centre nature reserve is a team effort. It takes a lot of work to look after the different habitats so wildlife can thrive, and people can safely enjoy exploring. Pinc students will gain first hand insight of how this busy site operates. They’ll get stuck into practical wildlife conservation tasks and our staff will encourage them to bring their own special touches and ideas into conservation efforts.

“Our fantastic team of Wolseley volunteers have a wealth of skills and knowledge that they’re excited to share with students. Our team can’t wait to start working with the students and see what ideas they take away to support nature where they live.”

Connect with us for more information or to see how you can be involved at …..

www.pincwoodlands.co.uk @pincwoodslands