After the successful launch of Stepping Stones Transitions Service in June 2009, young people with learning disabilities/difficulties from a variety of schools, including both special educational and mainstream, have been supported in making decisions about their futures and preparing for the move after school into adult life.

Pictured below are some student’s undergoing work experience and training.  Some came to Stepping Stones the Picture framing and Pink Elephant Card workshops for their work placement.  They attended over a block period, being out of school for one day per week, and were kept busy with the influx of picture frame orders and the hectic run up to Christmas for the Card workshop.

We also have had students doing placements in local restaurants/cafes and another in an architect’s office.  One young man is particularly looking forward to starting a 6 week placement at Tesco’s.  Placements and training opportunities are all tailored to the young person’s individual interests, abilities and needs.

These experiences help young people with learning disabilities and difficulties prepare themselves for leaving school and entering into adult life. They have learnt many new skills, met new people, increased in confidence, travelled more independently and began to take some responsibility for their futures beyond the classroom

This year, our 2010 school leavers will be undergoing more placements in areas of interest to them, undertaking some short life skills training opportunities such as food hygiene awareness , ‘working with others’ and ‘customer care’,  before finally transitioning into their new paths in life. 

After June there are a variety of areas that the 2010 leavers are venturing onto, depending on the individual needs, abilities and aspirations.  For some it is Vocational Training towards an NVQ in food preparation or front of house service through Stepping Stones Training Department, another is moving into further education and others have decided to join Stepping Stones’ Supported Employment Service.  Here they will begin a preparation for work course with a Job Coach.  One other student has decided to learn Independent Travel Training skills after finishing school. 

We look forward to seeing these and more young people, with the help of Stepping Stones, progress throughout their final school years and transition as contributing young adults into the community.