Established in 2010, Lower Bush Farm is a 40-acre farm-based alternative provision for students and a day centre for adults with learning disabilities. The farm provides a practical environment designed to teach learners vocational skills and workplace social skills.

For those students aged 14+ we offer NOCN Level 1 qualifications in Animal Care, Carpentry, and Horticulture, enabling students to develop skills while gaining valuable work experience. We aim to develop confidence, independence, and practical competence, preparing learners for further education or entry into vocational careers.

Forest School: for young students and for those for whom qualifications are not appropriate, we offer Forest School and animal care sessions. The focus is on outdoor learning through quality play, bushcraft, and team projects. Sessions build confidence, teamwork, and a connection to the natural environment.

Animal Care: learners explore the fundamentals of caring for a variety of animals, including feeding, handling, and basic health checks, fostering a deep understanding of animal welfare and responsibility.

Carpentry: students acquire basic woodworking skills by creating simple projects, building animal enclosures, and learning safe tool handling.

Horticulture: students develop practical gardening skills, including planting, pruning, and crop management. The farm has several different types of gardens, orchards, woodlands, and veg patches.

At Lower Bush Farm, we are committed to using a child-centred approach where students feel valued and empowered to pursue their interests. Our experienced staff collaborates with each student, tailoring their learning pathways to meet individual needs and aspirations.

The farm management is committed to collaborating with all partner agencies, such as schools and social workers, to enhance student welfare and educational success. We will address challenges quickly by ensuring that the farm has a designated contact person for each student at each placement agency.

Contact Details :

Rowanna Britten

07734295144

lowerbush@gmail.com

https://www.lowerbush.co.uk/

https://www.facebook.com/lowerbush

Frequently asked questions 

KS2 to adults.

Students need to be 14 to enrol on level 1 or 2 courses with NOCN.

Lower Bush Farm

Stoke Saint Milborough

Ludlow

Shropshire

SY8 2ES

Yes.

Students younger than 14, and for those older than 14 who are not working towards qualifications:

  • Forest School

  • Animal Care

  • Carpentry

  • Horticulture

Students aged 14+:

  • NOCN Level 1 Award/Certificate in Skills for Employment, Training and Personal Development

  • NOCN Level 2 Award/Certificate in Skills for Employment, Training and Personal Development

Qualification units cover animal care, carpentry, and horticulture.

10am – 2pm/3pm.

£75 per day group rate.

£190 1:1.