Access to Alternative Provision - BTCT Apex Centres

As part of our commitment to providing a broad and bespoke curriculum, pupils at Brookside Academy and especially The Willows have access to Apex Centres. These unique off-site learning facilities offer tailored intervention and support.

Currently, pupils from Brookside Academy access:

  • Apex Meadows (Bridgwater)
  • Apex West (near Minehead)
  • Apex South (on the edge of Crewkerne)

These centres provide:

  • Practical, inclusive curriculums with a strong emphasis on outdoor learning
  • Multi-disciplinary environments with enhanced access to specialist support and therapies
  • Personalised provision delivered by trained SEMH staff and remote learning teachers
  • Support for transition planning
  • Opportunities for all Trust schools to engage with outdoor learning and therapeutic activities

Each Apex Centre is coordinated by a Head of Centre, who is part of the wider Trust Inclusion Team. They oversee curriculum design, staffing, outreach, safeguarding, and referrals to specialist practitioners.

Provision at Apex can range from:

  • Three-day packages including core and therapeutic support
  • One-day offers focused on social interaction and therapeutic engagement with trusted adults
  • Short weekly sessions in a small group

Children and young people may be considered for Apex provision when identified as vulnerable learners due to:

  • Long-term non-attendance or disengagement
  • Risk of exclusion
  • High levels of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) impacting behaviour
  • Assessed social, emotional, or mental health needs
  • A specific need within an EHCP that can be met through this provision.

We understand that for some families accessing off-site provision may feel challenging. At Brookside, we approach this with sensitivity and care; we have a mini bus, trained staff and familiar adults who provide the support needed. Our ambition is not to push children beyond their comfort, but to open doors to experiences that are meaningful, safe, and empowering. We do this at a pace that supports. Every child’s involvement is carefully planned in partnership with families and professionals, ensuring that the provision is appropriate, beneficial, and aligned with their individual needs and aspirations.