Life Skills

Life Skills Lead: Rachel Stones

Our Life Skills curriculum is designed around the Preparation for Adulthood (PfA) framework, supporting pupils to develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need for adult life. Through a carefully sequenced pathway, learners progress through our Engage, Explore, and Discover curriculum pathways, with learning tailored to their individual strengths, needs, and aspirations.

Within the Engage Pathway, pupils learn through sensory experiences, interaction, and participation in familiar routines. The focus is on developing communication, self-awareness, relationships, emotional regulation, choice-making, and early independence skills. Learning is highly personalised, recognising and celebrating every step of progress.

Within the Explore Pathway, pupils begin to apply their developing skills across a wider range of contexts. They build greater independence in daily living activities, strengthen social and communication skills, develop problem-solving abilities, and engage more actively in their school and local community. Practical, hands-on experiences encourage confidence, resilience, and increased participation.

Within the Discover Pathway, learners are supported to use their skills independently and purposefully in real-life situations. They develop the knowledge and confidence needed to make informed choices, manage aspects of daily life, maintain healthy lifestyles, and prepare for future pathways. Learning is linked closely to community participation, personal wellbeing, and future opportunities, helping pupils to become as independent as possible.

Across all pathways, our curriculum is underpinned by the four PfA outcomes: Independent Living, Community Inclusion, Good Health, and Employment and Future Opportunities. By providing a clear progression from Engage to Explore and Discover, we ensure that every pupil is supported to achieve their full potential, develop lifelong skills, and enjoy a fulfilling and meaningful future.