The Montana Project
A unique offer, not replicated in the local area
The Montana Project aims to give young people, regardless of their background, the opportunity to develop their skills, enabling them to move forward in life and achieve success in whatever field they choose.
TMP uses equine and animal facilitated learning at our farm site to enhance student outcomes, forming part of the school’s vocational, academic and therapeutic offer.
In the beginning...
For over 25 years Alison Laws has worked with troubled and misunderstood horses.
Her work has taken her all over the world, working with and learning from some of the greatest horsemen that ever lived. The knowledge Ali gained has been influential in her development of a successful UK based company that has seen her save the lives of countless horses who have been deemed dangerous and unmanageable.
Using only non violent techniques and working with the horses using their own natural instincts, the changes horses are willing to make inspires adults who work with Hopefields and The Montana Project to undertake the same work with young people.
Partnership
Through this work, Ali met Emily Greenhalgh-Stone, a teacher, with a desire to transform the lives of young people who need to be reached by adults. The perfect partnership happened to bring the two passions together, for the benefit of those who need it most – Hopefields School is the place that allows this change to be possible.
Creation and moving forward
The Montana Project believes, as with horses, the same applies for young people – changing the way we ‘teach’ them can be the difference in their lives to set them on a different, positive and successful pathway. Using horses and understanding their desire to find peace in the world allows young people to develop skills and understanding that sees them searching for a better future.
Hopefields and The Montana Project work tirelessly to help our young people (who perhaps haven’t had the most successful educational or emotional experiences) to develop and evolve into confident individuals, whilst still achieving the education they need to go on and achieve success.
It is our belief that through our bespoke programs and certificated packages we can set young people on a different pathway, fostering responsibility for both themselves and their actions, allowing them to take control of their future for a life of hope and opportunity.
Outreach
At The Montana Project, we believe in a holistic and therapeutic approach that addresses not only a child’s academic needs but also their social and emotional well-being. We work closely with families and other professionals to create a comprehensive plan that meets the unique needs of each child. The work we undertake usually centres around providing family support and connection with their young person and/or enabling children who have not attended school for some time to increase confidence to do so.
Forest Schools
Young people based at Hopefields School can take part in The Montana Project as part of their core offer. This involvement informs their ASDAN, NOCN and AQA accredited qualifications and provides a therapeutic and holistic learning experience.
A full Level 1 diploma and accredited study programme in Equine and Small Animal Care is available for learners studying and engaging with us over a longer period of time.
AQA unit awards are on offer for those who are with us for a shorter intervention package.
Horses and Animals
The Montana Project develops life skills through both theory and practical sessions. Through our work, we have seen life changing transformation.
TMP helps young people to:
- accept responsibility
- deal with frustration and anger
- develop patience and understanding of themselves and others
- experience humility and empathy
- improve self worth, self belief and confidence
- engage with mindfulness
community groups
As a Community Interest Company, The Montana Project is focused on community working and engagement. We are always looking to offer our time and expertise, sharing our farm location with those across Teesside who need it most. Alison Laws, Lead for The Montana Project.
Contact her via email: ali@hopeifelds.org.uk for more information.