Liss and Froxfield (Janche Stables)

Liss, at Janche Stables, is a registered therapeutic education provision with a satellite provision at Froxfield, working with a genuinely varied group of animals.

Learning through animal care

Our young people have opportunities to care for a genuinely varied group of animals. Through feeding, grooming, cleaning, observing and spending time with them, they develop an understanding of the different needs, behaviours and personalities of the animals in our care.

Animal care provides much more than practical skills. Taking responsibility for another living being can help young people develop confidence, empathy, patience, communication and independence. Relationships with animals can also provide a valuable source of connection and regulation, helping young people feel more comfortable and ready to engage with the wider day.

Bringing the curriculum to life

Alongside animal care, young people take part in their individual curriculum sessions. Wherever appropriate, learning moves beyond a traditional indoor setting and makes full use of the farm, animals and surrounding natural environment.

The farm provides endless opportunities to make learning practical and meaningful. Maths, English, science, communication, problem-solving and wider life skills can all be explored through real experiences and purposeful activities. Animals may also support learning where appropriate, helping to increase engagement, motivation and confidence. This allows us to adapt learning around the individual rather than expecting the individual to adapt to the environment.

Riding and animal husbandry

Young people can also have opportunities to take part in riding lessons and animal husbandry, depending on their individual programme, interests and needs. These experiences allow young people to develop practical knowledge and skills while building coordination, responsibility, perseverance and confidence. Whether learning to ride, understanding how to safely handle an animal or developing more detailed knowledge of animal welfare and husbandry, progress is recognised and celebrated.

Space to grow

Throughout the day there is time to be outdoors, move, explore and experience the changing farm environment. Young people are encouraged and supported to develop sensory awareness, make choices and take positive, appropriately supported risks.

At Elysian, we believe learning happens through relationships, experiences and connection. A typical day therefore isn’t simply divided between “lessons” and “activities”. Care, learning, animals and the natural environment work together, giving each young person opportunities to develop knowledge and practical skills while growing in confidence, independence and their understanding of themselves and the world around them.