Celebrating Our Students

Our mission for nearly 50 years has always been to prepare young people with SEND for greater independence and meaningful occupations , whether paid or voluntary. Every summer it is bitter sweet when we say goodbye to our graduating students. We are sorry to see them go but are always so proud of their achievements.

Nationally only around 5.1% of adults with SEND, known to social services, are in any form of paid work. Many remain dependant on family care well into adulthood. By contrast the vast majority of Fortune College students are able to move into supported living and meaningful work - either paid or voluntary becoming contributing members of society.

• 2023 leavers: 90% met their daytime occupation targets and 100% met their accommodation targets, with students moving into supported living and meaningful activity.

• 2024 leavers: 75% met their occupation targets, but crucially a third (33.3%) went into paid apprenticeships or employment — far above the national average. 83.3% achieved their accommodation targets.

• 2025 leavers (to date): 100% met their occupation targets and 90% achieved accommodation targets. Notably, 20% progressed into mainstream equine courses — another exceptional achievement.

The model works! Horses teach patience, responsibility, confidence and emotional regulation, combined with our professional and knowledgeable staff, students develop transferable skills, organisation, teamwork, communication and resilience preparing them for placements in the wider community.

Their placements are varied - not always horse related. Students go on to work in places such as dog groomers, cafes and charity shops as well as on professional horse yards. By the time our students leave us they have the confidence and the experience to succeed in society.

The success of our students is proof of what is possible and why specialist education matters. Our horses are the most extraordinary teachers, coupled with the dedication of our staff, our students thrive. We are very proud of them all.

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