About us
A provision built on belief
The Willows was founded on a simple conviction: every child, no matter their history, deserves a place where they feel safe, valued, and capable of growth.
Our story
How The Willows came to be
The Willows grew from a recognition that too many young people were falling through the gaps of mainstream education — not because they lacked potential, but because the system wasn't built for them. Set in 4.5 acres of rural land, the provision offers something genuinely different: space, calm, animals, and an adult who truly believes in every child.
Our approach is rooted in the nurture principles — the understanding that children who have experienced trauma, disruption, or anxiety need their emotional needs met before academic progress can follow. Nicola will work patiently, relationally, and with the whole child in mind.
Our values
What we stand for
Belong
Every young person who comes to The Willows is welcomed unconditionally. We create a community where difference is celebrated and everyone has a place.
Learn
We believe all children can learn — when the environment is right. Nicola will meet young people where they are and build from there.
Grow
Growth looks different for every child. Whether it's confidence, regulation, friendships, or academic progress — we celebrate every step forward. Milestones aren't aimed for or celebrated, I prefer to access progress at much smaller steps - an inch at a time.
Safety
Physical and emotional safety underpins everything we do. The environment, routines, and relationships are all designed to help children feel secure.
Relationships
Healing happens in relationship. Nicola builds genuine, consistent, and caring connections with every young person in her care. Connections and collaboration with key workers and families are also built.
Nature
Our 4.5 acres of grounds, animals, gardens and woodland are not just a backdrop — they are central to our focus tasks and nurturing approach.
Our approach
Nurture principles at our core
All of our work is underpinned by the six nurture principles, which recognise that children's learning is understood developmentally, that the importance of nurture for the development of wellbeing is paramount, and that all behaviour is communication. Our sessions are structured but flexible, allowing us to respond to the needs of each child on any given day.
Children's learning is understood developmentally
The classroom offers a safe base
The importance of nurture for wellbeing
Language is a vital means of communication
All behaviour is communication
The importance of transition in children's lives
Meet Nicola Bevan
The Willows was created by Nicola Bevan, a dedicated education professional with 25 years of experience working with children and young people. Initially Nicola trained and qualified as a teacher of secondary geography, she later transitioned into primary school education specialising in supporting children with social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs — developing a deep understanding of what these young people truly need to feel safe and begin to thrive. At The Willows we focus on emotional safety and growth. Developing deep relationships and a holistic approach. With over two decades of experience nurturing and empowering young people Nicola has an arsenal of insights and knowledge and is able to relate to and have empathy with her families.
Nicola has held a range of specialist roles including Pastoral Lead, Nurture Lead, establishing a nurture group, breakfast club and drop in sessions for families. Nicola is a trained Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA). She has also worked as a Home–School Link Worker based within a primary school, giving her a unique insight into the challenges families face and the importance of building trust between home and provision. It is this wealth of experience, and an unwavering belief in every child's potential, that led Nicola to found The Willows.
Safeguarding & Safety
Keeping children safe is our first priority
The Willows is committed to the highest standards of safeguarding. Nicola and any addition volunteers hold enhanced DBS checks, receive regular safeguarding training, and operate within a clear framework of policies and risk assessments designed to keep every child safe.
Safeguarding Policy
Our safeguarding policy sets out how we protect children from harm, how concerns are reported and acted upon, and the responsibilities of every member of staff. It is reviewed annually and in line with current statutory guidance.
- Designated Safeguarding Lead on site at all times
- Clear reporting and escalation procedures
- Aligned with Keeping Children Safe in Education
- Annual policy review and staff training
Risk Assessments
Comprehensive risk assessments are in place for all areas of our provision — including animal care, outdoor activities, woodland sessions, and individual children. These are reviewed regularly and updated as needs change.
- Site and grounds risk assessments
- Animal interaction and care assessments
- Individual child risk assessments
- Activity-specific and off-site assessments
Staff Checks & Training
Every member of The Willows team holds an enhanced DBS check and receives regular safeguarding, first aid, and trauma-informed practice training. We maintain a single central record of all checks and qualifications.
- Enhanced DBS checks for all staff
- Regular safeguarding refresher training
- First aid trained staff on site
- Trauma-informed practice training
Policies & Documents
All of our policies are available on request. If you are a referrer, local authority, or family and would like to review any of our documentation prior to placement, please get in touch.
- Behaviour and Relationships Policy
- Health & Safety Policy
- Complaints Procedure
- GDPR & Data Protection Policy
Want to find out more?
Whether you're a school, local authority, or a family, I'd love to talk about how The Willows could support your young person.