Working with schools

When children are struggling with their social, emotional and mental health, the effects are often seen in their relationships, behaviour, attendance and engagement with learning.

At Dandelion Time, we work alongside schools to support children aged 6-13 before difficulties reach crisis point. Through our therapeutic, nature-based programmes, we help children build resilience, strengthen relationships and develop the foundations for lasting change.

Many of the children referred to us are experiencing social, emotional or mental health (SEMH) difficulties linked to challenging experiences in their lives. Our trauma-informed approach recognises the impact these experiences can have on a child’s wellbeing, behaviour and ability to engage with learning. By providing early support, we help children feel safer, more connected and better able to thrive at home, in school and in their communities.

We may be able to help children who are experiencing:

Family Support Programme

Nurture in Nature

Our Family Support Programme provides therapeutic support for children aged 6-13 and their parent or carer who are experiencing emotional, social or behavioural difficulties. Many of the families we work with are facing challenges that are affecting relationships, confidence, wellbeing, school engagement or day-to-day family life. The programme offers time and space away from everyday pressures, helping families reconnect, strengthen relationships and build resilience together.

The programme runs over nine weeks, with families attending a half-day session each week. Supported by Dandelion Time’s experienced therapeutic practitioners, children and their parent or carer take part in nature-based activities, designed to strengthen relationships, improve communication and build emotional resilience. Tailored to the needs of each family, the programme works alongside support already being provided by schools and other professionals, helping to create positive and lasting change for children both at home and in school.

Nurture in Nature is a small-group programme for children aged 7–10 who are experiencing emotional wellbeing challenges.

Set within Dandelion Time’s calming natural environment, the programme gives children time away from the classroom routine to slow down, connect with nature and take part in meaningful, hands-on activities that help build resilience, emotional regulation and overall wellbeing.

The programme runs over three weeks, with a two-hour session each week, led by Dandelion Time’s therapeutic staff and supported by trained volunteers. Schools are invited to select up to 12 children who would benefit most from this support, and we ask that two members of school staff attend the sessions to help strengthen positive relationships and build confidence in nurturing approaches.

Attend an open day

The best way to understand Dandelion Time is to experience it for yourself.

Our Open Days offer school staff the opportunity to visit our centres, meet practitioners and learn more about our therapeutic approach, referral pathways and programmes.

Whether you are a Headteacher, SENCO, Inclusion Lead, Family Liaison Officer or member of a pastoral team, we’d be delighted to welcome you.

Training

Drawing on more than twenty years of therapeutic practice, our training courses support professionals working with children and families.

Topics include:

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