Thank you to the Red Balloon Learning Centre Head Master, Michelle Masters, for giving us the opportunity to work with her pupils.
We had a great afternoon working on fitness and pad drills. There was great focus and determination shown by all the Red Balloon pupils and even the staff joined in the fun.
We feel very privileged to be given the opportunity to help the pupils at this amazing centre.
Red Balloon Reading is an inviting and nurturing educational setting that caters for students from across the local and neighbouring boroughs. We provide full-time or part-time therapeutic and educational support for up to 24 young people who are aged between 11-16.
The Centre focuses on the wellbeing and emotional development of their students, placing them at the heart of all that they do. They staff understand that families have often endured a difficult journey before their child reaches them, and so they work to ensure an inclusive and supportive environment. This may be through their Outreach Programme or in-Centre support offered to all their students.
All the students have either music or art therapy to support their emotional wellbeing and may also be able to participate in equine therapy. The Centre negotiates a curriculum with students that covers core subjects in the National Curriculum as well as the humanities, art, PE, PSHE and Food Technology. Students can also take part in a whole host of enrichment opportunities through partner organisations, including mechanics, outdoor learning, and animal husbandry. Students are encouraged to plan and lead trips, and they have visited museums, galleries, zoos, and other cultural locations. The centre also feels it is important to give back and so throughout the year staff and students take part in various fundraising activities.
A homemade lunch is provided by a housekeeper and is always delicious and healthy. The centre also has a garden, which is a beautiful place for lessons when the weather is nice. They have a chill-out room which provides a safe space for students to go to if they feel anxious or need a quiet space. The Red Balloon Centre is located within walking distance of Reading town centre and is across the road from Reading College. Above all, the Reading Centre is a warm and friendly place where our students can feel safe and happy.
For more information about the Red Balloon centre visit: www.redballoonlearner.org
