ASDAN is thrilled to announce the development of My Independence – our exciting, new preparing for adulthood programme.
Created alongside government advisers and SEND experts, the National Development Team for Inclusion (NDTi), My Independence is structured around the four preparing for adulthood (PfA) pathways (friends, relationships and community; employment; good health; independent living) and provides the most relevant programme for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The four courses within the offer have been designed to help young people achieve a wide range of outcomes, including those outlined in education, health and care plans (EHCPs).
Catering for learners working from pre-Entry level to Entry level 3 with profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD), severe learning difficulties (SLD) and moderate learning difficulties (MLD), the courses are aimed at learners aged 11 to 25 who are in education.
Transforming outcomes for learners
My Independence includes:
- a greater focus on planning for good life outcomes, a central feature of the SEND Code of Practice 2015
- a comprehensive offer for learners with PMLD
- an emphasis on person-centred planning through new tools that will help maximise outcomes for SEND learners
- new resources and activities that support key transition points, for example from Key Stage 4 to post-16 education and from post-16 education into adult life
- more opportunities for rewarding small steps of achievement through certification.
Franki Williams, NDTi consultant, said: “Adopting a person-centred approach was key to developing these programmes. My Independence provides tailored activities to ensure students can develop their confidence and the necessary skills and knowledge to successfully prepare for adulthood.”
Exceeding expectations
Leigh Blakeman, Tutor at Chadsgrove Educational Trust Specialist College, said: “The flexibility of My Independence is a real positive. It’s clear that you can use it to structure a completely new curriculum or to accredit an existing one.
“My Independence has helped engage learners, boost their confidence and, importantly, develop their essential life skills. It is a very exciting course and the resources have exceeded our expectations.”
Co-designed with practitioners
Simon Lawrence, ASDAN Head of Development, said: “We are excited about My Independence because of the transformative impact we believe it will have on the growing numbers of young people with SEND and EHCPs.
“We have worked closely with SEND experts NDTi and practitioners to ensure My Independence is engaging, effective and meaningful for every learner to ensure they are well prepared for adulthood.”
More information
To download free sample materials and learn more about the course, please visit the My Independence page.
You can arrange a free consultation with a member of our expert team by emailing programmes@asdan.org.uk