Setting the Standard for High-Quality SEMH Alternative Provision
Nurturing potential in a purpose-built space
The Hex, On Track Education’s Intervention Centre, is a dedicated Alternative Provision (AP) designed to meet the complex Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs of vulnerable young people aged 7–16. Set within the tranquil Dartington Estate, The Hex provides a high-quality, trauma-informed environment where safety, belonging, and emotional regulation are the foundations for academic and social growth. Our success is measured in the profound developmental strides our pupils make, leading to increased resilience, self-esteem, and positive futures.
Addressing Complex SEMH Needs
Many young people struggle to thrive in mainstream educational settings due to significant anxiety, complex needs, and diagnoses often linked to ADHD, autism, or social communication differences. The children we welcome are often out of school, between schools, or requiring substantial top-up support.
Recognising this critical gap, The Hex was established as a specialist AP focused on creating a therapeutic and safe space that addresses underlying emotional barriers alongside education.
A Purpose-Designed, Relational Environment
The unique, hexagon-shaped building is intentionally designed to be light, spacious, and open-plan. The internal environment is sensory-friendly, promoting calm and reducing the over-stimulation that often triggers anxiety.
The space is divided into dedicated zones to support a holistic developmental model:
- Creative zones: areas for art and expressive projects.
- Regulation spaces: dedicated quiet reflection areas and opportunities for play/movement
- Social engagement areas: seating overlooking the estate and interactive features like a table football table, encouraging positive interaction and shared activity.
Our Trauma-Informed Relational Approach
The core of The Hex’s success lies in our commitment to a trauma-informed, Thrive relational approach. Our long-standing team builds an essential foundation of trust, consistency, and unconditional belonging with every pupil.
This approach allows staff to deeply understand the individual needs of each young person, providing effective, nurturing, and safe support. The consistent demonstration of patience, respect, and genuine care actively breaks down the emotional and social barriers that have previously prevented success.
Daily Steps of Achievement
The Hex measures success not just by academic milestones, but by the daily, often overlooked, social and emotional progress that signals a fundamental shift in a child’s capacity to cope and connect.
Pupils begin to experience a sense of safety and belonging, allowing them to progress in positive social interactions. Staff observe and celebrate "soft skills" that are critical indicators of progress:
- A smile or willingness to initiate conversation.
- The ability to take turns or tolerate others in a shared activity.
- Joining a group activity for the first time.
Over time, these small social successes build critical resilience, self-esteem, and self-confidence. By the time they transition, children are equipped with the skills needed to thrive both within education and in the wider world.
Working Together for Brighter Futures
The Hex is an example of what high-quality Alternative Provision looks like: safe, structured, therapeutic, and aspirational. We work in close partnership with:
- Local Authority SEN teams across Devon and Cornwall.
- Parents and carers.
This network ensures every child is surrounded by a robust, positive support structure that provides opportunities to experience success, develop self-worth, and look toward the future with confidence.
“We take immense pride in the support we provide. ‘Tolerance is a requirement of belonging’ – our empathetic approach to challenge fosters the ability to tolerate and know that emotions are tolerable. Our students thrive, and it is a pleasure to see the progress develop and confidence blossom once they know they belong. The Hex provides the place where children are noticed, valued, and given the tools to face the future with confidence.”
Rachel Foot, Intervention Manager, On Track Education