FAR Academy in Whitstable, a specialist college supporting vulnerable young people aged 16–25 with social, emotional, mental health, and physical needs, is facing closure due to an unresolved funding dispute with Kent County Council (KCC).

Just before the October half-term, students and families were devastated to learn that the college would not reopen after the break. FAR Academy has not received its expected funding from KCC for the first two terms of the academic year, leaving it unable to continue operating without additional support. We are currently managing to stay open through a small private fund, but this cannot be sustained.

FAR provides more than just education. It is a safe, nurturing space where young people who have struggled in mainstream schools receive tailored teaching, mental health support, counselling, and therapy all under one roof. For many of these students, FAR is the first place they’ve ever felt understood and able to succeed.

“We’re a specialist mental health college working with the most vulnerable and traumatised young people in Kent,” says Headteacher and CEO Brent Lewis. “Our students have complex needs — autism, anxiety, trauma — and we’ve built a holistic environment where they can finally thrive.”

Families are heartbroken and fearful of what the future holds if the academy closes.

One parent shared,

“It’s scary to think my daughter could go back to what it was like before. Here, she’s made progress, gained qualifications, and feels accepted.”

FAR Academy is working tirelessly to resolve with KCC, but time is running out. The closure has been described as temporary, yet without emergency financial help, the college risks permanent shutdown.

How you can help

We are raising emergency funds to:

Keep FAR Academy open while negotiations continue

Ensure ongoing support for students’ education and mental health

Protect staff jobs and the safe community environment our young people rely on

Every donation — no matter how small — will go directly toward keeping this vital service alive for the students who need it most.

Please help us fight to reopen FAR Academy and continue changing young lives in Whitstable and across Kent.

❤️ Donate now and share to help save FAR Academy.