Centre For Vocational and Life Skills
Information for parent orientation
Bridging the Gap
The Centre for Vocational and Life Skills (Skills Centre) was established to meet the needs of our older pupils who had mastered functional academics and a range of skills and were ready to transition to independent living while learning basic vocational skills. The Skills Centre, an on-site facility, is designed to provide a personalised approach for these pupils and young adults. We aim to empower individuals to become self-reliant, considering their individual needs and functioning levels. This personalised approach is at the heart of our mission to bridge the gap between school and independent living, fostering personal growth and independence.
Objectives
- Helping students develop a healthy self-image.
- Introducing the concept of work.
- Develop a positive attitude and work ethic.
- Develop interpersonal, intrapersonal and functional skills.
- Learn more about their abilities and how to apply them to independent living at home and in the workplace.
- Assisting students to make decisions, take responsibility for their actions and solve problems.
- Recognising the student’s desires and aspiration/s.
- Assisting students in identifying career and educational goals.
- Expose students to entry-level job skills by participating in Unity College’s work experience programme, and, in the process, encourage a smoother transition into the world of work.
Curriculum
Self-Care
- Personal Hygiene
- Household Management
- Time Management and Organisational Skills
- Budgeting and Money Management
- Road to Independent Living
- Ablutions
Road to independent living
- Housekeeping – cleaning, using a washing machine and dishwasher
- Cooking basic meals
- Leadership
- Health and safety in the home
Social and workplace ethics
- Etiquette
- Teamwork
- Punctuality
- Following instructions
- Communication skills
General Workplace Skills
- Counting
- Measuring
- Cutting
- Sorting
- Sequencing
Gardening
- Health and Safety
- Equipment
- Planting
- Weeding
- Harvesting
- Eco-system of the vegetable garden
Digital Communication
- Basic computer literacy skills
- Internet Safety
- Responsible use of social media
- Learning basic skills to use a cell phone
- Understanding basic apps
Arts and Craft
- Tools and equipment
- Creative arts
- Crafts
Social Skills:
- Enhanced communication, conflict resolution, and relationship-building can help individuals navigate social interactions more effectively in adulthood.
Work Experience
Work experience is essential for preparing our students for independence. The work experience programme is a placement of our pupils at an employer’s premises. Pupils carry out a range of tasks and duties as an employee would but with an emphasis on exposure to the work environment. Pupils are gradually prepared for work at the Skills Centre at different levels, from sheltered workshops to the open labour market. They gain experience through voluntary placements, depending on the student’s abilities. In-house tasks are also part of the work experience programme.
The focus is on developing job-related skills to help pupils enter the workforce. This may be through sheltered work opportunities, semi-sheltered employment, or the open job market.
Assessments
Continuous Assessment is applicable. Observation, checklists, photos, and videos are key assessment tools. However, no formal assessments apply, keeping in mind the nature and functioning levels of our students.
IDP (Individual Development Programme)
An IDP consists of four individualised goals for each pupil. The goals are chosen to have the most significant impact on learning and are divided into short-term and long-term goals. These goals are followed over a year. Feedback is given through a “Learning Journey” and review meetings at midyear and year-end. IDP goals are revised collaboratively by the parents and teachers.
Sport
Our sports programme is incorporated into the school day.
Uniform
- The pupils must wear the correct school uniform daily unless otherwise stipulated by WhatsApp, email, newsletter, and term plan.
- Attention to appropriate grooming and wearing the correct uniform encourages self-respect and discipline.
Excursions
- Day trips are organised during the term and relate as closely as possible to the theme being taught.
- Shopping outings are encouraged to address money-handling skills and good social skills.
- During November, a two-day programme to develop leadership skills, teamwork, problem-solving skills, and an outdoor experience away from the school is organised for intermediate and senior pupils.
Morning Duties
- Teachers are on morning duty from 07h00 – 07h45.
- The Skills Centre students gather between the senior block and therapy centre in the mornings before school.
- During inclement weather, they will gather in a duty teacher’s classroom.
Communication
- Class WhatsApp groups are established for general communication about classroom and school activities. For more personal matters, please get in touch with the teacher privately.
- Open communication is essential. If a problem occurs, parents need to discuss it with the teacher.
Community Involvement
Bridging the gap between school and independent living is crucial in preparing students, especially those with special needs, for life beyond school. It requires a collaborative effort between schools, parents, and the community to create a supportive environment where students can develop the skills and confidence they need to live independently.
Schools, parents, and communities can collaborate to create a seamless transition from education to independent living. This collaborative approach ensures that students are well-equipped to handle the challenges of adulthood with confidence and competence.
