“Ascension Alternative Provision has been supporting my brother, who has been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, and anxiety, and the work they have done is incredible. They have not only helped improve his mental health, but also supported our family through school meetings and by creating new opportunities for him.

I accommodated my brother at the provision at Asset Fitness, Harlow Football Club — and it has been amazing. He has made real progress in his mental health and has become much more determined to make a difference in both his fitness and overall lifestyle. He now feels very comfortable in the space and says the facility is of a very high standard, which has made a big difference to his engagement and confidence.

The personal trainers, Andre and Sid, have been truly inspiring. They always put the young people first and are very engaging. My brother has learned so much from them, and it's had a huge impact on his confidence.

Sar, from the Active Essex Foundation, has also been amazing. She's taught my brother about different food groups, what they do, and how to use them — which has really helped him understand and improve his diet. She also takes part in the activities and offers support to all the young people involved, helping create a positive and inclusive environment.

The Active Essex Foundation as a whole has been outstanding — providing education around mental health, nutrition, and social development. APP has played a vital role in supporting my brother's education, attending meetings and helping with his online learning.

This group genuinely puts young people first, and I couldn't recommend them more highly”

— Michael Wood, Carer

“The dedication and support that EVERY member of this team offer to ALL the Children and Parents that attend this Group is just unbelievable. Always encouraging everyone to join in with the Group Discussions and Brainstorming Sessions, which have proved to be a great way for our Children to open-up and talk about feelings, fears and worries. This is something unfortunately us Parents have been unable to achieve.

APP has been amazing, never giving up on any of the Children, they have always been there for both of us with not only emotion support, but with such kindness and mental support through every step of this new process. APP brings out the good qualities in my Child and boosts his self-confidence as an individual, for the first time my Child actually feels he belongs somewhere and fits in.

Sid and Andrea have provided not only emotion support to all, but also the team building and exercise routines they provide make everything so enjoyable and fun for everyone involved. They are both so approachable no matter what the issue may be, ensuring that nothing is a problem and always providing the Children with a solution to any situation. The kindness they possess and positive, but fun way they encourage every child to participate in all activities is just amazing.

I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart, for being a unique set of individuals, your time, effort and kindness makes such a different to our lives.

I feel extremely privileged to have met each one of you, for never judging us Parents or our Children for the struggles we are going through as a family, because of you all we now see a more Positive and Achievable Future!!”

— Lisa Simmons, Parent

“My son has been working with Ascension Alternative Provision for a while now. Finally there was a person hearing us and truly caring. They have created an exceptional service for young people that need extra support or an alternative way of learning. The environment is light and comfortable and the staff friendly, funny and hugely supportive. I'll be forever grateful for this much needed service."

— Nikki Bourne, Parent

“I was referred to Ascension Alternative Provision through a psychologist at The Limes Surgery in Epping whilst seeking support for my grandson. He had been out of mainstream education for over a year due to significant mental health challenges. At the time he was isolated, anxious and rarely left his room. He struggled with low self esteem and had very little confidence. We found it extremely difficult to find any meaningful support.

Bring introduced to AAP was a turning point. My grandson found them easy to talk to and soon felt comfortable. I was struck by their enthusiasm and the sense that they genuinely cared. They gave us so much of their time and explained in depth what the, 'Sports Smart' programme involved.

From the first visit we were impressed by AAP’s approach and by the great facilities at Harlow Town Football Club. It was a safe and welcoming space where my grandson quickly felt at ease. Throughout the course, he worked closely with coaches Andrea and Sid. He took part in all of the activities and formed some strong, positive relationships.

Since being on the course, we have seen an amazing transformation. His confidence and self esteem have grown immensely and I'm proud to say that he has now been working for the past two months. This is something that seemed out of reach not so long ago.

This programme has made a massive difference to our lives. I feel very strongly that more services like this should be available and more easily accessible for young people. This would give them the opportunity to find a path towards a happy and worthwhile future. We are so grateful that my grandson has now managed to move forward.”

— Chris Haggen, Grandparent

I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to Ascension Alternative Provision for their unwavering support and guidance to a young person I referred in from Family Solutions. They have supported them in navigating their educational journey.

Their dedication and insightful advice have been instrumental in helping this young person make informed decisions about their education. Their patience, encouragement, and genuine care have empowered the family as a whole and allowed them to build a firm, confident relationship with her. APP’s commitment to fostering a positive and supportive relationship has made a significant impact in a family which have found it difficult to trust professionals previously.

APP has also supported another YP referral from family solutions,  which will not be open to family Solutions and came in as a screening. This YP has additional needs and is struggling with gender dysmorphia and mental health concerns. APP have accompanied me on home visits and made the young person feel at ease instantly. They said they feel like they have a new best friend.  

Communication from Ascension Alternative Provision in relation to referrals or advice on referrals is fantastic.

—Christina Garry, Family Solutions

From a family solutions perspective, Ascension Alternative Provision have been exceptional in seeking out placements and opportunities for him. They have taken into account his SEND needs and been able to support in this area. With the other young person, Ascension have been assisting in tailoring her education plan which has included tutoring, on the lead up to her GCSE exams.

Ascension Alternative Provision has attended Team Around the Family meetings for those families, and assisted us with working 1-1 with the young people. There has been a focus on their future, healthy relationships and self-esteem. This service has been so helpful for us and I hope we can keep referring!

— Madison Smith, Family Solutions