Our Offer
Preparing for Adulthood
As part of our provision for learners aged 16-20, we offer a programme based on the Preparing for Adulthood framework and the Gatsby Benchmarks. At Red Balloon of the Air, this is known as Step4Ward.
Step4Ward offers a suite of modules which are delivered face to face, in small groups and are run alongside the learner’s GCSE and/or Functional Skills programme. This enables our learners to gain formal qualifications together with the social skills, life experience and confidence to move onto a further education college course, employment or training/apprenticeship placement.
There are three key modules: Independent Living Skills, Future Pathways and Learning 4 Living. Each module runs for one academic year (Sept-July) and a post-16 learner may participate in a maximum of two Step4Ward modules, alongside their academic/qualification subjects. Each module provides the opportunity to work towards achieving an AQA Unit Award.
Independent Living Skills
This module promotes the development of a range of skills for living a healthy, happy life. Topics include: cooking, household maintenance, independent travel, health, budgeting, personal hygiene and self-care. We are mindful that each individual young person’s health and personal situation may impact their prospects for living independently and we tailor the module with this in mind, whilst maintaining high expectations and encouraging the greatest level of independence and responsibility for self.
Future Pathways
In this module, we introduce young people to the various options for further education/qualifications, vocational courses, traineeships and apprenticeships, employment and enterprise/entrepreneurship. Future Pathways is suited to a young person who is in the early, tentative, stages of exploring possibilities for their next steps, beyond RBAir. We know that making decisions about what to do next can feel daunting, so this module offers a supportive environment where young people can explore the range of possibilities, alongside finding out more about themselves and developing skills to make informed choices about their pathway/transition plan.
Learning 4 Living
Building on the Future Pathways module, Learning 4 Living is suited to a young person who is likely to be in their final year with us. This module is about gaining confidence and trying new things. We ‘dip our toes’ into a range of real-world experiences and help the young people find the right environment – be that in education or work – to suit and inspire them. The focus is on getting out and about in the local community, including via public transport. Our young people participate in three projects (one per term) which gradually build on their interests, experience and confidence working with others. These projects involve a group project, volunteering and work experience.
Post-16 Social Communication Groups
These run alongside the other Step4Ward modules. The key topics explored within these groups are Building & Maintaining Relationships, Communication and Community.
The above provides a summary of what we offer in Step4Ward, but it is important to highlight that each module is tailored to support the needs and aspirations of each young person. The modules are regularly refined to meet individual EHCP and IPP needs and to promote a focus on outcomes that are transferable to the real world so that learners can successfully make informed choices, manage change and fulfil their potential.