Referrals & Admissions
Find out how to make a referral to Maypole Farm — who can refer, what the admissions process involves, and what happens after you get in touch.
Admissions
A clear, straightforward process
Referrals to Maypole Farm don't need to be complicated. We want to make it as easy as possible to start a conversation — whatever stage you're at.
Who can make a referral?
The admissions process — step by step
Make an initial enquiry
Contact us by phone, email, or use the referral form on this page. Give us a brief overview — we'll have a real conversation, not process you through a system.
We review and respond
We'll be in touch within two working days to discuss suitability and next steps. We'll ask questions — and we'll answer yours honestly.
Visit the farm
Child and family are invited for an informal visit — a relaxed look around, a chance to meet the team, and for the young person to see whether it feels right for them. This is not an assessment. It is an introduction.
Funding confirmed
We work with the family, school, or local authority to confirm the funding route. We can advise on this process and help navigate it if needed.
Place confirmed and plan agreed
A formal offer of a place is made. The individual plan is developed with the young person, family, and any relevant professionals before they begin.
Gradual start
We build attendance slowly — often starting with a short visit, then a few hours, then building up week by week. We never force a pace that isn't right for the child.
Admissions criteria overview
We consider young people for a place at Maypole Farm where:
- They are aged approximately 5–25
- Mainstream education is not currently meeting their needs or is not accessible to them
- There is an identified SEND or SEMH need, or a significant circumstance such as care experience
- A funding route is confirmed or in progress (we can discuss this)
- The young person and family are open to exploring the placement
- Maypole Farm is deemed a suitable environment following our suitability assessment
Meeting these criteria does not guarantee a place. Places are subject to availability and a suitability assessment. We will always be honest if we feel we cannot meet a young person's needs.
Funding routes
LA EHCP funding
For children with an Education, Health and Care Plan
LA AP commissioning
Local authority alternative provision budgets
School direct commissioning
Schools purchasing provision directly
Self-funded
In some circumstances — please enquire
Contact us directly
Prefer to talk first? Call us or drop us an email — no form required.
Response time
We aim to respond to all referral enquiries within two working days.
Online referral
Make a referral enquiry online
Use the form below to submit an initial referral enquiry. This is not a formal referral document — just an initial contact to start the conversation.
Referral enquiry
For professionals, LA staff and schools
Use this form to make an initial referral enquiry. We'll review your submission and be in touch within two working days to discuss suitability and next steps. Please do not include highly sensitive information at this stage.