In the Beginning

Ethan came to us at 16 years old after experiencing a series of disruptions in his care placements. These disruptions had led to emotional instability and a reluctance to engage in education. Ethan struggled with feelings of abandonment and had difficulty trusting adults, which made settling into a new environment particularly challenging for him.

Ethan's Journey with OTF

Our approach with Ethan focused on building trust and consistency. He was provided with 8 hours of individual support each week to help him adjust to life at the home and manage his emotions. With the guidance of our team, he began setting small, achievable goals and gradually opened up about his past experiences and aspirations. 
 
Ethan's introduction to Orchard Therapeutic Farm (OTF) marked a pivotal moment in his journey. He initially participated in farm activities as a way to ease into a new routine, but he quickly found the experience fulfilling. The structured environment and the opportunity to work with animals gave Ethan a sense of purpose, helping him build confidence and develop new skills. 
 
In addition to his time at the farm, Ethan worked on practical and academic qualifications, which were tailored to his individual learning style and needs. The blend of work experience and education allowed him to make meaningful progress without the pressure of a traditional school setting.

Ethan's Story

Ethan's transformation over the past few months has been inspiring. He is now more self-assured and has started to think about his future career in a positive light. His experience at OTF has given him the tools he needs to continue growing both academically and emotionally, preparing him for the next steps in his life. 

At our care and education facilities, we use a trauma-informed approach across both Orchard Therapeutic Farm (OTF) and our residential homes. This approach helps us provide the necessary support to young people who have faced significant challenges, helping them heal, grow, and achieve their goals.