A Parent’s Perspective – Harley’s Journey with Offshoot
Harley has always had a knack for making things. There’s a certain creativity in the way his brain works – he sees the world a little differently, and that’s part of what makes him so special. We first heard about Offshoot from a friend whose child had been attending a filmmaking class at Moreton Hall, designed specifically for young people with SEN. They spoke so highly of the sessions and the way they encouraged creativity through film that we decided to give it a go. Before long, Harley was signed up and ready to explore a new way of expressing himself.
Since joining, I’ve noticed a real shift in what he’s interested in creatively. He’s gotten really into stop-motion animation and has started learning how to upload his work to YouTube. In fact, he’s even launched his own YouTube channel – a huge step in confidence and independence.
Offshoot has also become a big part of Harley’s social life. It’s one of the few clubs he’s stuck with and genuinely enjoys attending. He’s made great friends through the sessions, and it’s clear that being part of a group where everyone shares a common creative goal means a lot to him.
For me, those two hours each week are a little pocket of peace. I get to go for a walk around town, stretch my legs, and spend some time recharging in nature. It’s become something I really look forward to – not just for Harley, but for myself too.
And even the drives to and from class have become something special. That Dad-and-Son time in the car often sparks interesting conversations about life – little moments we might not otherwise have.
🎬 Feedback from From Harley...
“Offshoot helps me be sociable, making movies as a group together. I don’t get to do that group work at home.”
"The facilitators are really helpful and nice. Elvis the cat comes to visit sometimes and we like him.”
“No induvidual moment sticks out in my mind as every activity so far is too memorable for me! Although I’m currently really proud of the project I’m working on, so that’s probably my highlight so far.”
“What I liked most was when me and Saffy made 'Killer On The Loose'. When me and Finley made a stop motion animation together.”
Check Out Harley’s Website!
Harley has been putting his creative skills into action outside of Offshoot too. Visit his personal website to see what he’s been working on!
👉 Visit harleythorpe.comA huge thank you to Harley and his family for sharing their Offshoot journey with us.
We’re so proud to see Harley’s creativity and confidence grow with every project, and it’s clear he brings as much joy to the sessions as he gets from them. Stories like his are exactly why we do what we do – thank you for letting us be part of it.
