AN ART therapy project is helping vulnerable children with social, emotional and behavioural difficulties to re-engage with learning and integrate better into their local community.

At present, 30 pupils are supported at Ceredigion Pupil Referral Units between the ages of eight and 16, and a further 15 pupils are supported within mainstream Secondary and Primary Schools in Ceredigion, by a team of SEBSAs (Social Emotional Behaviour Support Assistants) that work as outreach in schools.

Difficulties for these pupils arise from a wide range of reasons such as a recent bereavement; changes in family circumstances; learning difficulties and medical conditions amongst other.

Such difficulties are often expressed by challenging behaviour, such as the inability to concentrate in class or handle angry feelings, and feeling stressed and anxious.

The Art Therapy sessions provided at PRUs give pupils the chance to explore their own and others’ emotions, develop social and communication skills and explore their hopes and dreams for a better future within a relaxed, quiet and calm learning environment.

Cllr Hag Harris, Cabinet member with responsibility for learning services, children and young people’s partnership, said: “These lessons have resulted in amazing pieces of art work from the pupils and has really led to improved emotional well-being, making the pupils more confident and happier as individuals and being able to re-engage with learning.”