Schools and Alternative Provision
StoneMind sessions are led by Tom Brown, a QEST Scholar, Master Stone Carver and qualified teacher (PGCE/QTS), with over fifteen years’ experience teaching traditional stone carving and working in educational settings.
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We deliver structured, hands-on stone carving programmes designed to develop focus, resilience and meaningful engagement, tailored for mainstream schools, specialist settings and alternative provision.
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Sessions are calm, practical and material-led, offering a deliberate alternative to screen-based learning and conventional enrichment.
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Our programmes have already been delivered successfully SEND and SEMH schools, where staff observed strong engagement and sustained focus from pupils who often struggle in conventional classroom environments. References from these schools are available on request.
Sessions are delivered to small groups of typically four to six pupils, allowing each pupil to work safely with tools and materials while receiving close guidance.
What we deliver
Each session is built around clear demonstration, scaffolded skill development, and safe use of professional tools.
Pupils work to create a finished piece, developing practical competence and sustained attention through real, physical making. All tools, materials and safety equipment are provided.
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Sessions are adapted to the needs of the group and can support both curriculum enrichment and targeted intervention.
Who is it for?
• Alternative provision placements
• SEMH and SEND learners
• Small group interventions
• Pupils experiencing sustained cognitive or emotional load
• Enrichment days and focused project weeks
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Sessions are particularly effective for pupils who benefit from structured, low-sensory environments and hands-on engagement.
Structure and Safeguarding
Sessions are delivered by Tom Brown, supported by Grace, who brings six years’ experience working with SEN and SEMH learners. Together, they provide consistent, attentive supervision and clear guidance throughout.
Delivery is underpinned by robust safeguarding and operational standards:
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• Fully risk assessed
• Delivered in small, structured groups
• Clear tool demonstrations and safety guidance
• Covered by appropriate public liability insurance
• Aligned with school safeguarding procedures
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Risk assessments and documentation are available on request.
Outcomes for pupils
Why traditional craft matters​:
Working with stone offers pupils a rare opportunity to slow down, concentrate deeply and experience the satisfaction of shaping natural material with their hands. In an increasingly digital environment, activities that require patience, skill and perseverance can provide a valuable counterbalance to academic study.
Many independent schools value these experiences as part of their wider commitment to creativity, craftsmanship and character development.
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• Sustained focus and attention
• Practical tool competence
• Increased resilience through material challenge
• Completion of a physical task
• A tangible, finished piece of work
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Working with stone requires patience, precision, and controlled force. Pupils experience the satisfaction of shaping a resistant material through steady effort.
Session formats
StoneMind Studio is most effective when delivered as sustained, small-group provision.
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• Structured 4–6 session blocks (recommended)
• Termly alternative provision placements
• Short pilot block (1 session) for new schools
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Sessions are delivered in the Chapel Room at St Augustine’s Church, now used as a community venue. The space is neutral, enclosed and well suited to structured small-group activity.
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The venue offers accessible entry and toilet facilities.​
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Delivery in schools:
Sessions can also be delivered directly within school settings. We bring all tools, materials and safety equipment, and work with staff to identify a suitable space where pupils can work safely and without distraction.
Many schools choose to run small-group intervention blocks for pupils who benefit from practical, structured activity alongside their usual timetable.
Testimonial
"Tom did a fantastic job with my students. They all created exceptional work and remained fully engaged throughout the day."
Teacher, West Sussex SEMH/SEND School
