Ruth Patterson has been appointed as the new Head of Provision at Ad Astra's Alternative Learning Provision based in Elvington, York.

She brings a fantastic, natural energy with her, bringing out the best in everyone. Ruth has been a teacher for thirty-two years, and from working in both mainstream and alternative education, she has been able to adapt her methods to those who need the extra support but thrive to learn the national curriculum. Director and Designated Safeguarding Lead, Elizabeth Shaw says 'Ruth has the experience and passion for alternative learning that brings out a spark in our students that they haven't experienced before in mainstream. Her enthusiasm and hunger for our students to achieve their best potential has been obvious from the onset.'

Ad Astra is beginning its ninth year as an alternative provision, and in that time has worked with thousands of young people from all over the North of England, but predominantly York. By delivering Maths and English GCSE, Functional Skills, ASDAN, AQA and important life skills to students aged 11-24, they also work alongside a behaviour psychologist, mental health workers and other professional organisations to offer a full, bespoke support package for both young people and their families. By 2021, Ad Astra figures showed that they reduced offending by as much as 100% in some students allowing them to get their lives back on track. 

York Press:

 

Working alongside their partners Natural England LDV, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust and Escrick Park Estate, Ad Astra has created a bespoke, extensive mental health package that allows students to reconnect with the great outdoors through work such as Wildlife, Land, Waterways and Forestry Management. The benefits of such courses in this current time with the pandemic forcing people to isolate and creating an environment of mental health issues in all ages, not just the young is more valuable now than ever before.  Ad Astra have this September introduced a new mechanics and construction course, led by leading professionals in the field, giving children and young adults the opportunity to learn new skills, hands-on experience and gain specialised qualifications to build their future careers. 

If you are interested in knowing more about what Ad Astra do, please visit their website www.adastrauk.co.uk.