About the Minster Provision
The Minster Provision is a collaborative partnership between Linkage Trust, Applefields School, and the City of York Council. Based at the Clifton Explore site, this provision supports young people with complex needs, primarily aged 19+, although in exceptional circumstances, post-16 students may also be considered.
Our provision is designed to offer a supportive and structured environment where every learner is encouraged to thrive and prepare for adulthood.
Our Vision
At the Minster Provision, we aim to bridge the gap between education and adult life. We are committed to ensuring that young people with complex needs can actively and meaningfully participate in society.
We believe in every student’s potential. Through a carefully designed curriculum and strong community partnerships, our learners develop the confidence, skills, and independence needed for life beyond education.
Our Approach
We offer personalised programmes lasting between two to three years, depending on each student’s individual needs and progress.
Years 1–2: Building Foundations
- Community access and engagement
- Social integration
- Developing independence and life skills
Final Year: Transition Planning
The final year is a part-time transition phase, where students:
- Spend less time on campus
- Begin transitioning into their next placements
- Work closely with Adult Social Care and personal assistants
We collaborate with families and professionals to ensure each student leaves with:
- A meaningful and structured programme
- Familiarity with community provisions
- A strong foundation for continued development
Curriculum Offer
Our diverse and engaging curriculum includes:
- Creative arts
- Rebound Therapy (trampolining)
- Swimming and gym sessions
- Pottery
- Multisensory storytelling
- Parachute games
- Specialist reading resources
- Toolbox drama sessions
- Cognition activities
- Outdoor sports and games
- Movers and Shakers sessions
- Public library visits
- Computing skills
- Baking
- Massage and sensory circuits
- Yoga
- Music Therapy
- Work experience (where appropriate)
Specialist Support
Communication is central to everything we do. We work closely with:
- Speech and Language Therapy teams
- Physiotherapists
- Occupational Therapists
- Barnsley Assistive Technology Team
This integrated approach ensures that each student receives holistic, consistent support.
Developing Independence
We place a strong emphasis on life skills. Students are continuously encouraged and supported to:
- Build independence
- Make choices
- Participate actively in their daily lives
Our goal is to empower every individual to achieve as much independence as possible.
Personalised Learning
Each student benefits from a tailored learning programme designed around their unique needs, abilities, and aspirations.
We are dedicated to supporting every learner in making a successful transition into adult life.
Find Out More
If you would like to learn more about the Minster Provision or arrange a visit, please contact our Admissions Team:
Email: transition@linkage.org.uk
Applefields School
Bad Bargain Lane, Burnholme,
York,
YO31 0LW,
United Kingdom
