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An
Organic Farm that runs Courses for |
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Pennyhooks
Farm is a beautiful, small organic beef farm situated on the Oxfordshire/Wiltshire
border that has been owned by the Otter family for over 50 years. The
Pennyhooks Project began 5 years ago and provides a unique experience
to young people who have Autism/Aspergers Syndrome. The peaceful
rural setting, supportive environment and the opportunity to have hands
on experience in the running of a working farm as part of a team, provides
a wealth of opportunity for personal growth and development.We offer
the Countryside Stewardship Course, accredited by the OCN, with modules
in:
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Feeding
the cows |
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“Our aim is to provide a welcoming, accepting & interesting environment. We believe in our students and know that success leads to success. We give whatever support is required until students are able and confident enough to take part by themselves”. We focus on developing the social and life skills that foster this independence, ensuring that all students reach their maximum potential and are helped to prepare for adult life. A typical day at Pennyhooks Farm includes caring for the animals, conservation work on the water meadows and walks on the farm. Practical activity is enhanced by the use of picture/word worksheets that are created to allow students with all levels of communication skills to participate. |
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Collecting
logs to fuel the boiler |
Moving the fence for the cows |
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Much care has gone into the design of the newly completed purpose built facility to ensure that the environment is peaceful, homely and safe. Pennyhooks Project is managed by Lydia Otter, a Special Needs Teacher and Richard Hurford who is an experienced Probation Service Officer and Pennyhooks Farm Manager. They work with experienced and empathetic staff trained to support students and their families. Parents and carers are encouraged to participate in all aspects of a student’s experience at the Farm and are always welcome to visit. The service is open to young people who have Autism Spectrum Disorder. The programme operates on all weekdays with students attending either daily or weekly, depending on their needs. The courses run were developed by the Northmoor Trust and are accredited by the Open Colleges Network. We are members of the Soil Association, CLA & NFU and also of a group of like-minded people who are involved in Care in the Countryside that is headed by the Arthur Rank Centre. Our service is tailored to meet the needs of individuals and we welcome further enquiries. |
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Walking our donkeys |
Taking a well earned break |
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Pennyhooks Project Tel: 01793 782436/780213 How to find us: Click here for Google map Pennyhooks Farm is on the A420 Swindon to Oxford Road. From Swindon travelling east towards Oxford it is signposted on the left, between the Shrivenham Turn and the Watchfield Roundabout. (just after the footbridge that crosses the carriageway). |
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This project is supported by Defra (ERDP and EAGGFund), The Bailey Thomas Fund and the F & M Sainsbury Trust and many other kind donors |
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