FAQs

What is InvisAble InkEd?

InvisAble InkEd is an interest-led, trauma-informed, and deeply child-centred alternative education provision based in Devon. We specialise in creating safe, imaginative, and accessible learning experiences for children and young people who may not feel able to engage in traditional school environments.

How can a learner be referred to InvisAble InkEd?

Referrals can be submitted directly via email at heather@invisableinked.co.uk. Schools, local authority teams, parents, and carers are all welcome to enquire.

What information do you need when making a referral?

We typically ask for:

  • the young person’s background and needs

  • current educational situation

  • known challenges or risks

  • goals or areas of interest

  • any relevant documentation (EHCP, reports, etc.)

What type of support do you offer?

We currently offer:

  • 1:1 tutoring and learning mentor sessions

  • Minimum session length of 1 hour; maximum of 15 hours per week (maximum of 2 hours for learners under years old)

  • Plans for future small-group sessions where appropriate

Our team includes:

  • A Makaton-trained practitioner

  • A BSL-trained practitioner

  • Staff with SEND specialisms

  • Professionals experienced in supporting neurodivergent learners and those with complex needs

Are you insured and trained?

Absolutely. InvisAble InkEd holds full professional insurance and enhanced DBS checks. Our staff are trained in safeguarding, SEND, trauma-informed practice, and specialist communication approaches, including AAC, Makaton, and BSL..

What should my child bring to sessions?

Just themselves.
Comfortable clothing, a snack or drink if needed, and any agreed-upon items are always helpful—but all materials and resources for activities are provided.

Can parents/carers stay during sessions?

This depends entirely on the needs of the young person. Some learners benefit from having a familiar adult nearby at first; others engage better with gentle independence. We'll decide together what feels safest and most supportive.

Who do you work with?

We support learners aged 5-19 across South Devon who benefit from personalised, flexible, creative approaches to education—specialising in supporting learners with PDA, Autism, ADHD, anxiety, school-based trauma, and learners needing a bespoke educational offer.

Do you accept privately funded learners?

Yes. Families may self-fund spaces if they do not fall under local authority commissioning.

What does learning look like at InvisAble InkEd?

Our provision is completely interest-led, meaning every learner experiences something different—and designed just for them. We write a unique, bespoke curriculum for every young person, built around their interests, strengths, needs, and preferred ways of learning.

Sessions may include a wide range of creative and interactive approaches such as:

  • VR experiences and immersive learning

  • 3D printing and digital design projects

  • Gaming, game design, and interactive storytelling

  • Art, craft, and creative design

  • Music, movement, and sensory exploration

  • Hands-on projects, experiments, and curiosity-led activities
    …and so much more, depending entirely on what engages each learner.

Is it all educational?

Absolutely—but not in a traditional way. Learning happens through curiosity, connection, creativity, and exploration. Whether designing a video game, crafting a sculpture, narrating a story, or navigating a virtual world, each activity is tied to developmental goals such as communication, emotional regulation, problem-solving, social skills, or confidence-building.

How do you handle safeguarding?

Safeguarding sits at the heart of everything we do, and transparency is one of our core values.


We believe families, professionals, and—most importantly—young people deserve clear, honest communication at every stage.

We follow robust safeguarding procedures aligned with local and national guidance, and:

  • we act promptly on any concerns

  • we explain what we are doing and why, wherever appropriate

  • we work in partnership with families and agencies

  • we ensure young people feel safe, respected, and understood

Our goal is to create an environment where safety is not just a policy—it's a lived, visible commitment.

Are you an approved provider?

Yes! InvisAble InkEd is officially a successful provider for Lots 2a and 2b on Devon County Council’s Independent and Alternative Education Support for Children and Young People in Devon framework. We are recognised as a “most advantageous tender”.

Is there a waiting list?

Depending on current capacity, we may operate a waiting list. We will always communicate expected timescales clearly.

Where does learning take place?

We can learn in a variety of environments, including:

  • The Pillow Fort – our dedicated, safe, and nurturing learning space

  • At home – for learners who feel more secure in familiar surroundings

  • Out in the community – parks, museums, shops, nature spaces, cafés

  • External events and opportunities – when relevant to a learner’s interests or goals

Flexibility is key—we meet learners where they feel safest, most regulated, and most able to engage.

Do you follow the National Curriculum?

Not in the traditional sense. Instead of rigid subjects and levels, we use each learner’s passions to explore skills such as communication, critical thinking, literacy, problem-solving, emotional regulation, creativity, and social development.
Learning is woven into activities that feel meaningful and fun—not forced or overwhelming.

How do you measure progress?

We focus on real progress—the kind that changes lives.
This may include:

  • improved confidence

  • better emotional regulation

  • increased communication

  • renewed curiosity

  • stronger social or practical skills

  • greater engagement with learning

Progress is documented through narrative assessments, observations, and regular feedback. We keep referrers and families updated with clear, thoughtful reports.

Do you work with other agencies?

Yes. Collaboration and open communication help ensure consistent, holistic support. We regularly work alongside schools, local authority teams, health and social care professionals, and anyone else involved in a young person’s wellbeing.

How can I contact InvisAble InkEd?

You are always welcome to reach out at heather@invisableinked.co.uk.
Whether you have questions, ideas, concerns, or are curious about next steps—we’re here.