OLD TOWN SUPPORT SERVICE  Empowering young people through care, creativity,and connection.

Old Town Support Service is an alternative provision based at Old Town Riding School in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire. We support children, young people, and adults with additional needs through tailored, nature-based sessions designed to nurture emotional well-being, confidence, and life skills - all in a relaxed outdoor environment.

We are proud to be an approved provider with both Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire County Councils.

Founded by Laura and Daniel King, Old Town Support Service is led by a compassionate and experienced team who are passionate about helping young people thrive. Many describe our setting - surrounded by horses, animals, and open space - as their “happy, safe place.”

We offer a personalised, relational approach - one that meets each individual where they are and gently supports them to move forward at their own pace.

We welcome individuals aged 4 and up who may benefit from a more flexible, therapeutic environment, including those who:

Are neurodivergent.

Experience emotional or social challenges.

Struggle in mainstream education.

On a reduced or alternative timetable.

Out of education or seeking re-connection with learning.

We offer a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach, recognising the importance of trust, choice, and connection in healing and growth.

Sessions are tailored to each young person’s interests and needs. Activities may include:

Horse care and riding.

Spending time with our stable dogs.

Looking after our chickens, and ducks.

Outdoor cooking.

Arts, crafts, and creative projects.

Gardening and site care.

These activities offer more than just structure - they promote confidence, emotional regulation, problem-solving, and a strong sense of purpose. Whether working independently or as part of a team, young people gain skills they can carry into everyday life.

We work at the young person’s pace, building trusted relationships and encouraging engagement through curiosity and care. Every session offers opportunities to:

Build self-esteem and resilience.

Develop communication and social skills.

Express feelings in a safe, non-judgemental space.

Learn new skills in a calm, sensory-friendly setting.

Experience joy, movement, and connection with nature.

Most importantly, we make time for fun and genuine connection -  both with others and with the animals.

We work closely with:

Primary and secondary schools.

Specialist colleges and provisions.

SEND and SEMH teams.

Supported living services and social care teams.

Families, carers, and private referrers.

Together, we help create consistency, safety, and opportunity in each young person’s journey.

All team members are:

Enhanced DBS checked.

Trained in First Aid and Safeguarding.

Experienced in positive behaviour support.

Committed to creating a warm, inclusive, and respectful environment.

We’d love to talk with you about how we can help.

Call Laura on  07815 981534 or email  lauraking@oldtownridingschool.co.uk