Alternative Provision at North Star
Safe to learn.
Ready to re-engage.
Relational, trauma-informed and neuro-affirming alternative provision for children and young people aged 7–16 in Hartlepool.
North Star Learning Hub Alternative Provision
A trauma-informed, neuro-affirming educational provision that supports children and young people who may struggle to access, engage with or thrive within traditional educational environments.
We recognise that every child is different. For some children, barriers to learning may be linked to anxiety, Emotional-Based School Avoidance (EBSA), autism, ADHD, sensory differences, trauma, attachment challenges, social and emotional needs, or difficulties finding the right educational environment.
Our approach is centred around understanding the child first and building provision around their individual strengths, interests and needs.
Every child deserves to feel safe, understood and able to succeed.
For some children and young people, mainstream education becomes overwhelming — not because they are unwilling to learn, but because their needs are not currently being met in a way that allows them to thrive.
At North Star, we provide a calm, relational environment where children can rebuild confidence, reconnect with learning, and move forward at their own pace.
We focus on:
- safety before success
- relationships before demands
- engagement before attendance
Who We Support
We support children and young people aged 7–16 who may be experiencing:
- EBSA / school anxiety
- neurodivergence
- unmet or emerging SEND needs
- disengagement from education
- SEMH needs
- emotionally overwhelmed school experiences
- trauma or disrupted education
- reduced attendance or school refusal
- low confidence and self-esteem
Our Approach
Relationship First
Children learn best when they feel emotionally safe, regulated and understood.
Trauma-Informed & Neuro-Affirming
We recognise that behaviour is communication and support should not depend on diagnosis.
Personalised Learning Pathways
Each learner follows an individual pathway built around their strengths, needs, interests and long-term goals.
Engagement Before Attendance
We prioritise meaningful engagement and sustainable progress over pressure-based approaches.