Creative Inclusion is a therapeutic and academic Alternative Learning Provision (ALP) in Sunderland for neurodivergent children and young people.

80

We understand every learner’s complexity, we nurture their creativity, and we build their capacity to thrive. We don’t ask learners to adapt to education - we reshape education to meet them. Guided by trauma-informed and developmentally respectful practice, we provide education and training that considers each young person’s strengths, needs, and readiness. Our holistic services and learning spaces offer flexible support and nurturing environments so that learners are met as they are, not as others expect them to be.

 

A Space That Feels Like Belonging

Our learning studio in Frederick Street, Sunderland, is a safe, neurodiversity-friendly, and trauma-informed space where the young people we support are empowered to grow and thrive; it is a place where they can decompress, feel respected, are seen and heard, and build transformational trusting relationships.

Every room is thoughtfully curated to support sensory ease and emotional wellbeing - featuring quiet corners, adaptable spaces, and engaging materials that invite playfulness and curiosity. Here, team members tune into each young person's cues with warmth and responsiveness, encouraging authentic expression and self-discovery. Through gentle guidance, creative activities, and moments of mindfulness, we create an environment that fosters safety and belonging.

 

Our origin story

Creative Inclusion Learning Studio Logo

Creative Inclusion was born from lived experience, fierce hope, and a refusal to settle for “good enough.”

Its roots lie in a career shaped by insight and compassion—first as a teacher and senior leader across both mainstream and SEMH schools, then as an SEN Education Development Adviser within local government, and later as a SENDCo supporting learners inside a Category C prison. Each setting brought its own truths and challenges. Each person, their own story.

These experiences revealed the urgency of change—and the possibility within it. Inspired by one child, one family, and one vision, Creative Inclusion grew into a studio for transformation and trust: a space where education no longer demands adaptation from the learner, but rather adapts itself to meet the learner with dignity, safety, and creativity.

Our butterfly logo speaks for itself—change is possible, and belonging is beautiful.

 

Our Vision

To build a world where every young person feels safe to learn, empowered to express themselves, confident to shape their own future, and thrive.

The Guiding Values behind Creative Inclusion: Kind Hearts & Curious Minds

Creative Inclusion Heart Logo

HEART

Honouring neurodiversity: We celebrate difference, creativity, and each learner’s way of being.

Empathy and emotional safety: Trauma-aware, attuned to each learner’s internal world and external needs.

Agency and autonomy: Learners are active participants with real choice in how they grow.

Respect and relationships: Non-judgemental, relational practice built on trust and collaboration.

Thoughtfulness and time: We offer patience, presence, and the space each learner deserves.

Creative Inclusion Heart Logo

MIND

Meaningful connections: Relationships that uplift and empower every learner’s journey.

Inclusion in every sense: Welcoming difference, adapting with sensitivity, and embracing every voice.

Nurturing environments: Sensory-aware spaces where safety, comfort, and curiosity thrive.

Dignity and discovery: Valuing each learner as capable, curious, and worthy of respect.

Referral Form & Entry-Exit Toolkit

Download the Creative Inclusion Young Peoples Referral Form by clicking here you can also download the Creative Inclusion Entry-Exit Pathway Toolkit by clicking here
 

Our Policies, Processes, and Procedures

Policies are updated constantly as and when needed. Please feel free to contact us, using the contact form, should you require access to another policy, or if you need a policy in a different language.

Current Policies, Processes, and Procedures

Department of Education Guidance
SEND Policies
Safeguarding Policies
Admissions Policies
Equality Policies
Data Protection Policies
Learner Information, Procedures & Policies
Other Policies
 

See our photos
and find out what life at Creative Inclusion looks like

 
See the photo gallery