Hut 9 provides:

• a positive learning environment for vulnerable and more challenging pupils who find it difficult to be in school
• a focus on meeting the needs of each individual pupil in the most appropriate way
• broad and flexible approaches to meeting these needs. 

The project started originally to cater for three non-attendees; such was its success that it has expanded to become an established feature of the school's provision.

How it contributes to education and health policy priorities

Hut 9 is one of a number of linked initiatives in Forres Academythat has taken a whole school approach towards becoming a health promoting school.

Other initiatives include the following:

• Passport to a Healthier You and the Confidence to Cook club – promoting greater awareness of healthy eating and exercise
• transition project – a partnership between primary and secondary school, Hut 9, social work and community learning and development
• increased physical activity – link with new Moray Council leisure facility in Forres, coordinated by Active Schools coordinator
• healthy eating – breakfast club, healthy lunches, healthy snack dispensers
• lunchtime drop-in service – lifestyle and health information through NHS Grampian and community learning and development 
• mental health initiative – includes staff health and well-being (Scotland's Health at Work silver award), domestic abuse awareness and awareness-raising through mental health promotion (primarily to pupils in S5 and S6).  

Timescale, scope and funding

• Project running from April 2005 onwards
• Links with other projects organised by the school and LCN
• Funding received from school and LCN partners