New opportunities for Limavady neurodiverse youth through skills programme

Mark Hylands, from NOW Group, recently met with Helga Kingston, Special Educational Co-ordinator at Limavady High School, to outline the pathway the programme provides for neurodiverse students preparing to take their next steps beyond education.

Mark said: “I am delighted to hear about how Limavady High School cater for neurodiverse students as they progress through education and look forward to working with the school to support young people into further training and ultimately work when they finish the current academic year.

“The Skills for Life and Work programme is an exciting opportunity available to neurodiverse young people which will see them gain qualifications, work experience and general learning skills that will support them on their individual pathways and futures.

“We have so many talented young people in our community, who are perhaps not suited to traditional pathways when they finish school and this specially designed programme will ensure that they can progress, develop and contribute to society in a positive and confident manner.”

The Skills for Life and Work programme is a three-year course designed to support young people aged 16 to 21, or up to 24 for those who have been in care, who require additional support to progress into employment and independent living.

The programme is open to young people with a range of support needs, including disabilities, autism or ADHD, as well as those who received Special Educational Needs support while at school.

Participants can choose to specialise in one of four areas, retail, hospitality, creative media or ICT.

Throughout the programme, they are supported to build confidence, develop independence and gain valuable employability skills.

Across all pathways, participants work towards qualifications equivalent to five GCSEs, complete Essential Skills qualifications in Maths, English and ICT, and gain practical work experience in their chosen field.

Those taking part also receive a weekly training allowance of £40, along with reimbursement for travel expenses incurred while attending the programme.

The programme is delivered through NOW Group, based at the Embassy Building in Derry, and is aimed at young people from the Limavady, Derry and Strabane areas.

Young people, parents and schools interested in finding out more about the opportunities available are encouraged to contact Mark on 07743 933575.

Further information about the Skills for Life and Work programme and other initiatives offered by NOW Group is available at www.nowgroup.org.