Castle Hearts is an alternative education space unlike any other, a vibrant community where art and well-being flourish. Coordinated by professional Artist Tristan Howe, and delivered by a range of local artists and wellbeing practitioners, Castle Hearts is a place for people with differential learning needs to find a sanctuary to thrive at their own pace, empowered by collaboration, kindness, and the transformative power of art.

We started this project in response to government funding cuts to free-to-access courses with a wellbeing focus at ACL Colchester, which have now been replaced by courses geared to support people to build upon their basic Maths and English skills with the specific purpose of entering employment. This issue was bought to our attention by the project lead. The people we work with will not be able to work at this standard, meaning that they are being excluded from free provision - leading to declines in mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing through a lack of engagement in cognitive activities, socialisation with others and interactions within their wider community.