Students at OA-Thurrock continue to benefit from a long-standing partnership with Circles Alternative Education (Circles Farm, Salon & Study), providing personalised vocational learning opportunities that help young people build confidence, develop practical skills and achieve recognised qualifications.
Tailored to individual needs, students attend Circles Alternative Education for one or two days each week, taking part in a range of hands-on activities including animal care, construction, hair & beauty, cooking and bushcraft. Alongside gaining valuable vocational experience, students can also work towards BTEC qualifications, helping them prepare for future education, training and employment.
The partnership is built on a shared commitment to supporting young people beyond the classroom. Through real-life working environments and opportunities to take ownership of meaningful tasks, students are encouraged to develop teamwork, independence, responsibility and self-belief.
The relationship between OA-Thurrock and Circles extends far beyond the weekly provision. Staff from Circles Farm are regular attendees at parent consultation evenings, Christmas celebrations and summer events, working closely alongside academy colleagues to celebrate student achievements and provide joined-up support for young people and their families.
One recent example of the partnership's impact is a current Year 9 student, who was recognised with a Jack Petchey Achievement Award following nominations from staff and peers at Circles Farm. The award celebrated his outstanding attitude, commitment over the past two years and the care he showed while helping with the birth of chicks on the farm.
His achievement reflects the positive opportunities created through the partnership, where students are encouraged to discover new strengths, take pride in their accomplishments and build the confidence to succeed.
By combining vocational learning with personalised support, OA-Thurrock and Circles Farm continue to create meaningful experiences that help young people engage with education, develop valuable life skills and realise their potential.