
Empowering Young People Through Tailored Alternative Education and Support
At Kernow Horizons, we specialise in providing personalised, community-based education and mentoring for young people who face barriers to mainstream schooling. Whether through exclusion, illness, or additional needs, we deliver flexible and responsive support designed to unlock potential and build confidence all whilst learning and preserving a timeless trade of sash window restorations and upgrades.
Our approach respects each young person’s unique journey. We work closely with families, schools, and professionals to create safe, supportive environments where individuals can re-engage with learning and thrive socially and emotionally.

At Kernow Horizons CIC (community interest company), we understand that learning isn’t confined to traditional classrooms or rigid schedules. Our alternative education and mentoring services happen wherever young people feel safest, most supported, and ready to engage. Because the environment is just as important as the learning itself.
Community-Centred, Inclusive Learning Environments
Our programmes are delivered across a diverse range of welcoming and accessible spaces throughout Cornwall and beyond, designed to meet the unique needs and interests of every young person:
- Local Community Centres and Youth Clubs: Vibrant, nurturing hubs where young people connect with mentors and peers in safe, inclusive surroundings.
- Outdoor and Forest School Locations: Learning in nature fosters resilience, confidence, and wellbeing. From climbing and horse-riding to forest school activities, the outdoors becomes a dynamic classroom for life skills development.
- Home and Outreach Visits: For those who benefit from personalised support in familiar settings, we provide one-to-one mentoring and tailored interventions at home or in the community, ensuring no one is left behind.
- Online Platforms and Digital Workshops: Using modern technology, we deliver remote learning and one-on-one support to bridge the digital divide. Our digital literacy sessions equip young people with safe, critical skills to confidently navigate today’s online world.
More Than Education: Holistic Wellbeing and Practical Life Skills
We know many young people face complex challenges, so our approach integrates education with health and wellbeing support, led by our multidisciplinary team—including a registered nurse:
- Breathing and Mindfulness Classes: Practical sessions teaching breathing exercises and mental health toolkits that young people can carry with them every day, empowering them to manage stress, build focus, and regulate emotions.
- Expert Health and Wellbeing Support: Our registered nurse provides vital mental health guidance and early identification of health needs within our programmes—ensuring comprehensive care alongside education and mentoring.
- Bridging the Technology Gap: We actively close the digital divide by offering personalised tech support and teaching safe, informed digital use, preparing young people for the realities of our connected world and combating misinformation.
Why Our Approach and Spaces Are Different
- Safe and Inclusive: Each setting is free from bullying, judgment, or exclusion—creating a welcoming atmosphere where young people feel valued and heard.
- Tailored Learning: Every programme is designed around the individual’s strengths, interests, and needs, helping young people reclaim control of their education and personal growth.
- Flexible Delivery: We meet learners wherever they are—be it outdoors, in community venues, at home, or online—removing barriers and making support truly accessible.
- Strong Partnerships: Working closely with families, schools, health professionals, and community organisations to provide holistic care that nurtures learning, social connection, and emotional wellbeing.
At Kernow Horizons, we don’t just provide alternative education—we create meaningful opportunities for young people to grow, flourish, and prepare for a confident future in environments that truly support their unique journeys.
About Kernow Horizons

60%
of young offenders have literacy levels below those expected for their age
70%
of children within the youth justice system have a diagnosable mental health disorder
80%
of young offenders in the UK have special educational needs
Kernow Horizons services
Explore our targeted initiatives and specialist support designed to improve educational and wellbeing outcomes for children and young people with ADHD and autism. We deliver personalised, trauma-informed services that promote inclusion, resilience, and meaningful progress. Join us in creating lasting positive change in the community.
Our Approach
- Individualised Support: Tailoring programmes around each young person’s strengths, interests, and challenges.
- Safe and Inclusive Spaces: Ensuring environments free from judgement and bullying, where young people can feel heard and valued.
- Collaboration: Engaging families and professionals in meaningful partnership to support sustained progress.
- Flexibility: Delivering support across community venues, outdoors, homes, and online to best suit the learner’s circumstances.
- Outcome Focused: Committed to clear, measurable improvements in education, wellbeing, and life skills.
How It Works
Making Support Accessible and Effective
- Referral and Assessment: We partner with schools, Cornwall Council, families, and professionals to identify needs.
- Personalised Planning: Supporting young people with individually designed programmes focused on their priorities and goals.
- Flexible Delivery: Sessions can take place in multiple community settings or via remote support, removing barriers to participation.
- Progress Monitoring: Regular check-ins and reporting ensure our work is meaningful and adaptive.
- Partnership Collaboration: We maintain open communication with all involved to provide coherent, effective care.
Outcomes
We believe success means more than just attendance. Our focus includes:
- Increased learner engagement and academic progress
- Enhanced emotional wellbeing and self-confidence
- Improved social skills and healthy relationship building
- Reduced behavioural challenges and exclusion risks
- Lifelong skills for independence and personal growth
Services
Settling-In & Transition Support
Tailored assistance to ease new or transitioning students into school life, helping them build confidence and social connections.
Personalized Student Mentoring
One-on-one mentoring focused on identifying strengths, developing life skills, and overcoming personal and academic challenges.
Pupil Behaviour Support Plans & Agreements
Collaborative creation of behaviour plans that empower students and equip staff with clear, consistent strategies—including support addressing digital influences and substance awareness.
Life Skills & Social Skills Development
Group sessions that teach organisation, communication, emotional regulation, and peer interaction skills to support student independence.
Parent & Caregiver Advice Sessions
Practical support and up-to-date advice for families on education, wellbeing, technology use, and managing modern challenges like substance use.
Bridging the Technology Gap
Guidance on integrating educational technology, AI tools, and digital literacy to support diverse learners, enhance engagement, and promote safe online behaviour.
Mental Health & Wellbeing Support
Assistance for schools to recognise and respond to student mental health needs with empathy and effective interventions.
Post-Assessment Support & Advocacy
Help interpreting assessment outcomes with clear next steps. Support for staff and families to navigate educational systems and advocate effectively.
Reflective Practice Workshops.
- Breathing exercises and mindfulness practices to manage stress and build resilience
- Workshops on thriving amid modern technologies while critically navigating misinformation
- Career exploration and personalised career planning to find meaningful pathways
- Guidance and support for learning and growth despite mental health challenges or other difficulties
- Practical trade skill development to build confidence and open doors to employment
