We have partnered with Higher Farm Education to offer an alternative learning pathway for individuals in and around Cheshire with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Set within the award-winning Higher Farm Equine in the picturesque Cheshire countryside, Higher Farm Education provides a supportive, hands-on environment where learners can develop essential skills in work-based horse care, animal care, employability, and personal progress.
We talk to Rob and Charlotte from Higher Farm Education to learn more about their work and the impact of this collaboration.
Can you tell us a bit about Higher Farm Education and your role and responsibilities within the company?
Higher Farm Education provides an alternative learning environment for young people with SEND, helping them gain practical skills for careers in equine and animal care. Learners benefit from hands-on experience with a variety of animals, which plays a key role in their personal and professional development.
Rob – As Education Lead and SENCO, I oversee education quality, develop individual learning plans, and support staff in building strong relationships with learners. As Safeguarding Lead, I also ensure compliance, staff training, and a safe, supportive environment.
Charlotte – As Manager, I coordinate learners and staff daily, ensuring they receive the right support. I also work closely with Haddon Training to deliver courses, organise trainer visits, manage coursework, and liaise with parents, carers, and local authorities.
What motivated you to partner with Haddon Training?
Haddon’s reputation as an OFSTED-registered provider stood out to us. Their mix of practical and academic learning was a perfect fit for our learners. The ongoing communication and face-to-face support from one of their Trainer Coaches, who regularly visits to assist with assessments, has been invaluable in bringing out the best in our learners.
What skills and knowledge do you hope learners will gain from this partnership to prepare them for their future careers?
Our learners work towards qualifications in Animal Care or Horse Care, up to a Level 3 Diploma, alongside Functional Skills in maths, English, Personal Progress, and Employability. Being based at a working Equine Centre, they gain real-world experience—caring for animals, working alongside professionals, and observing specialists like vets and farriers. Beyond technical skills, we focus on developing their confidence, work ethic, and interpersonal skills, which are highly valued by employers.
What are your hopes for the long-term impact of this partnership on both your learners and the broader community?
We want to continue growing our partnership with Haddon Training to reach more young people in need of an alternative learning environment. Higher Farm Education serves as a springboard, preparing learners for further education, apprenticeships, or employment. They don’t just learn to care for animals—they build essential life skills and the confidence to thrive. Already a key part of the local community through our Equine Centre and Riding School, we aim to make Higher Farm Education just as well-known. With Haddon’s support, we hope to create more opportunities for learners, schools, and community groups to benefit from our unique outdoor learning environment.
For more information about our Alternative Provision, click here.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us here.
