LIFESKILLS CENTRE

This half term has been a busy, positive, and rewarding period for the Lifeskills Department at OFT, with a strong focus on student development, wellbeing, and empowerment.

Following the Christmas break, it has been fantastic to welcome students back and support both returning and new learners as they settle into the Lifeskills Centre. The energy and engagement shown by students has set a great tone for the term ahead.

Student voice and engagement have remained central to our work. Students have been actively involved in creating student-focused social media content, helping them build confidence, communication skills, and digital awareness. Alongside this, we have continued empowering students through structured folder work, ensuring they can clearly evidence their progress and achievements. Group sessions have also played an important role, including social sessions where some of our male students have been building confidence and connections through activities such as American football.

Highlights & Celebrations

One of our key successes this half term has been the completion of Food Hygiene qualifications, with students successfully achieving Level 1, while staff members completed Level 2, strengthening both student employability and staff professional development. Another major highlight has been the creation of the new Sensory Room within the Lifeskills Centre. This space has already proven to be a great success, offering students a calm and supportive environment to help regulate emotions and manage wellbeing throughout the day.

We are also proud to celebrate staff achievements this term, with more mentors completing the OFT Mentoring Training and being awarded their certificates. In addition, we have successfully launched our first peer mentoring scheme, supporting students to learn from and encourage one another in a positive and structured way.

Looking Ahead – Next Half Term

Looking ahead to next half term, the Lifeskills team will be supporting more mentees to work

towards achieving their Lifeskills Open Awards Certificate, providing formal recognition for

their hard work, commitment, and personal development. This will involve tailored support,

structured activities, and ongoing mentoring to help students evidence their progress and

build confidence in their abilities. By working towards accredited outcomes, students will not

only gain valuable qualifications but also develop essential skills that will support them in

education, employment, and everyday life.

Alongside this, we are excited to continue building on the positive momentum established

this term. The Lifeskills Department will remain focused on creating inclusive, supportive,

and engaging learning opportunities, while strengthening our mentoring programmes and

peer support initiatives. By continuing to empower students, celebrate achievements, and

respond to individual needs, we aim to ensure that every learner feels valued, motivated,

and supported to reach their full potential.