Nurturing resilience through nature

Based at Courteenhall Estate in Northamptonshire, New Leaf Learning helps children grow with confidence and connection through nature, guided by our unique TRUST method.

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Our mission

We help primary school children grow, thrive, and reach their potential — whatever their starting point.

Working with schools, families, and communities, we create nature-based learning environments that build confidence, resilience, and a love of learning. Through evidence-based programmes and personalised support, children overcome barriers, discover their strengths, and develop skills for a more independent future.

In this video, Alex Preston — Lead Teacher, Designated Safeguarding Lead, and creator of The TRUST Programme — shares the psychology and educational neuroscience behind New Leaf Learning's compassionate, evidence-informed approach.

New Leaf Learning is a registered charity — number 1202923.

At the heart of New Leaf Learning is our unique TRUST method—a nurturing framework that builds children’s confidence, resilience, and readiness to learn.

About us

  • Parent feedback

    “Back in October my 8 year old daughter began to show visible signs of emotional distress just by going to school. It was a really difficult and challenging time for us all as a family whilst we tried to navigate her reluctance for school and being around people again.

    Now in her 5th and final week on the TRUST programme, the change in her is a miracle. We've had no panic attacks or uncontrollable crying through genuine fear before school each morning and she's spending more and more time now in the classroom.”

  • Parent feedback

    “My daughter has thoroughly enjoyed her time at New Leaf Learning! I can see a huge difference around intent and this has helped her relationship with her sister and also has reduced conflict. I think it’s great that it is offered to all school children, as it meant I was able to refer her myself via communicating with the school. I can see she has picked up on lots of skills and it has been extremely beneficial to her. We will also continue to work on what she has learnt at home. Thank you.”

  • Parent feedback

    "The TRUST Programme has had a great impact on both my son and myself. I understand him more now. You have done a fabulous job in understanding his behaviour and putting it into perspective for me.

    I am so very happy with how he has come home every week with positive vibes. What a great difference this has made for us all. I would recommend it to all the schools."

  • Teacher feedback

    "Schools are seeing more children who need support with their mental health. By having this training and learning strategies ensures children are supported. Schools can take a consistent approach which is kind and nurturing. This training promotes a warm, safe and nurturing approach to behaviour management with children who have suffered trauma."

  • Child feedback

    "This is the best ever. I have learned how to make friends and I know they understand me and will be kind."

  • Teacher feedback

    "I am already seeing a positive impact in the school environment, with children who have not even had the opportunity to experience the Trust programme first-hand, simply because I am transferring the skills I've learned into the classroom."

  • Parent feedback

    “My son has enjoyed New Leaf Learning so much and we have definitely noticed changes in the way he communicates with us and comes out of sulks quicker! Plus he loves being outdoors more.”

  • Parent feedback

    “We have seen significant changes over the last 4 weeks.”