Date: October 2025
Review Date: October 2026
Coordinator: Head
Nominated Governor: Vicki May
Version: v10.25
Why We Currently Accept Learners Aged 12–17
At The Haven, we are committed to providing a safe, trauma-informed, and well-supported online learning environment for neurodivergent learners.
In our first year of operation (2025/6), we have made the decision to accept learners aged 12–17 only.
This is a purposeful decision based on:
Safeguarding and Legal Considerations
● Learners aged 13+ are generally recognised as being of an age where they can access online platforms more independently within safeguarding best practice frameworks.
● It simplifies compliance with online safety legislation, data protection (GDPR), and safeguarding policy for both staff and families.
Capacity and Staffing
● Our trauma-informed model is built around small-group teaching, trusted relationships, and high levels of individual support.
● Starting with learners aged 12–17 allows us to deliver this level of care within our current staffing structure, before considering expansion to younger age groups.
Future Plans
We know there are many children aged 10–12 who would benefit from The Haven’s approach.
As we grow our team and develop appropriate provision for younger learners, we will review this policy — always ensuring that we maintain the highest standards of safeguarding and support.
Requests for Younger Learners
We understand that some children under 12 may be academically advanced or struggling in other settings.
At this time, we are not able to make exceptions to our minimum age policy. This is to ensure the safety, consistency, and integrity of our learning community.
We are happy to signpost families to trusted alternative providers or discuss future cohort plans.