Groundbreaking Alternative Provision School

 Groundbreaking New Alternative School for Children living with an Acquired Brain Injury Secures Funding

Matrix Neurological, a charity dedicated to supporting children with brain injuries has successfully secured £250,000 in funding to establish a specialised school for children with acquired brain injuries. This new project, aimed at providing tailored education and key skills to young people recovering from acquired brain injuries, marks a significant milestone in the charity’s ongoing efforts to improve the lives of those affected by neurological conditions.

The funding, provided by the Postcode Innovation Trust will enable the charity to develop an educational centre designed specifically to cater to the unique needs of students with brain injuries following a head injury, serious accident or illness. The school will offer a specialised curriculum that integrates non-clinical interventions, specialised teaching methods, and vocational training to help students regain confidence, skills, and independence as they reintegrate into society.

Jan Rock, Chief Executive, Matrix Neurological, said: “This funding will allow us to create a safe and supportive environment where young people with acquired brain injuries can continue their education, receive the support they need, have improved long-term outcomes and work towards a brighter future. We are immensely grateful to Postcode Innovation Trust who made this vision a reality.  It is also the first time they have invested in the Tees Valley in their 10-year existence, so it is a real coup for our area, which is a huge achievement for us.”

“We believe that every child, regardless of their injury, deserves the chance to learn, grow, and thrive. This school is just the beginning of what we hope will be a long-term movement to improve the lives of child brain injury survivors across the area.”

The school will be staffed by professionals trained in both conventional and innovative approaches to learning and rehabilitation. By focusing on personalised education plans, the school will offer students a flexible approach to learning, addressing the cognitive, physical, sensory, communication, emotional and behavioural challenges that may arise from brain injuries.

The new alternative position is set to open its doors this year in Stockton with 30 students, with plans to expand its services in the future to reach more individuals across the area. In addition to providing education, the school will also offer family support services, providing guidance and resources to loved ones navigating the complex road to recovery.

Matrix Neurological is committed to raising awareness about brain injuries and breaking down the prejudice, barriers to education and lack of appropriate rehabilitation support faced by many child survivors. With this new initiative, they hope to create a model of care and support that can be replicated across the UK, giving many young children and their families the opportunity to rebuild their lives.

For more information, contact  Abi Murtala abi@matrixneurological.org.uk or Jan Rock – jan@matrixneurological.org.uk