Life Skills at Highfield Littleport Academy
Why are Life Skills Important?
Life Skills are a key part of the curriculum for all Highfield pupils. These skills are embedded within each of our pathways and taught at the most appropriate level for the learner. This is the basis for our work related learning strategy and as our strap line states it prepares learners for the next step.
Careful and highly individualised curriculum planning across the school is related to students EHCP Outcomes. It aims to give all pupils the opportunity to experience and learn to prepare for real life situations, such as shopping, crossing the road, meal planning, writing a letter and posting it, or even growing and eating their own food.
Independent living skills are an essential part of personal development; ensuring pupils feel confident in their communities and enhance self-esteem. Pupils’ progress in this essential area is monitored closely through our Evidence for Learning software.
How are Life Skills taught?
The development of life skills is embedded into the curriculum up until the beginning of Key Stage Four. Within Key Stage Four students work towards accredited qualifications. The timetable includes dedicated time to develop life skills.
Highfield Littleport has its own dedicated life skills area with resources available for students to learn skills in a supportive environment. Links with the local community enable students to apply these skills in the real world environment.
Key skills for life cover these key areas:
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Employment |
Exploring career options, work experience, vocational options, transition to new settings, (college visits). Apprenticeships, supported internships, traineeships, CV Writing, Interview techniques |
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Independent Living |
Travel training, making own food, independent living skills, managing money, managing time, shopping, safety |
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Community |
Friendships and relationships, volunteering, community resources, community projects |
Learning is accredited through the ASDAN frameworks and students are able to work towards accredited qualifications in KS4 in all pathways.
Why are Life Skills so important?
Developing independence and confidence are key areas in many of our child’s needs. Highfield have a highly individualised approach to ensure that personal requirements are addressed.
Life skills taught both within the safe school environment, and most importantly on offsite visits present the opportunity for students to experience first-hand accessing community facilities and interacting with the general public.