Wild Projects
Wellbeing and passion-led learning intertwined
Not long ago two boys built a dead hedge and pathway entirely on their own, through the woods, connecting the yurt to the beehives. They didn’t follow a worksheet – they saw a problem and built a solution. What they built was a hedge, but what they gained was the quiet confidence and pride that comes from making something real. That is Wild Projects.
In Wild Projects learning is alive, guided by curiosity, fuelled by creativity, and grounded in the natural world.
Our skilled Learning Guides therapeutically scaffold passion-led learning through each child’s chosen project, to rekindle their confidence, self-esteem and joy in learning. We help children rebuild the resilience that is too easily knocked when school or life feels overwhelming, so they are ready for whatever comes next.
What a project looks like
Beneath the surface of each session lies careful planning and thoughtful design. But what you notice first is vibrant, autonomous learning and children absorbed in the work they have chosen - whether it’s animation, art, beekeeping, bushcraft, ceramics, drama, growing, jewellery making, leatherwork, metalwork, photography, sewing, woodwork or anything else that inspires them. Our design thinking framework guides them from understanding a real-world need to building something that works, testing ideas, adapting and trying again.
Why it matters
Wild Projects fosters deeper self-awareness, and promotes autonomy and self-advocacy. Along the way children discover who they are, and that they are good at things. They learn to collaborate, be creative, solve problems, and make their voice heard – skills that transfer into every area of their lives. As one parent told us, “I’ve seen her light turn back on.” By holding learning and wellbeing together, we support recovery and growth and nurture each child’s capacity to thrive.
Who is it for
Wild Projects is part of our Nurture Farm, for children aged 6 to 13 who are struggling with their mental health and emotional wellbeing. How much time each child spends on their projects depends on what they need. Some focus on nurture, animal care and simply feeling safe and secure. Others, as they become ready to re-engage in learning spend whole afternoons absorbed in a project they love. Our Learning Guides follow each child’s lead, so wellbeing always comes first. Placements run one day a week for 24 to 36 weeks.
Accessibility & funding
Social equity is at the heart of our community, and we believe no family should face barriers to helping their child to thrive. We raise funds through grants and charitable foundations so that at least 70% of our places are free, for children who have no other support available. Most fall into the gap between the support ordinarily available in the classroom and the threshold for an EHCP.
Schools and the Local Authority can also commission a small number of places for children with an EHCP or EOTAS package, where we can meet their needs. We are an approved supplier on Surrey County Council’s Alternative Provision framework.
Please contact us
If you’d like to know more, we would love to hear from you! info@huckleberries.org.uk