“[Teens and Toddlers] helps them find something they’re absolutely amazing at and it gives them something to be truly proud of.”
Having previously worked in a school where the programme was already in place, Nic was determined to bring the same opportunity to the young people at Edgar Wood Academy.
“Many of the young people we choose to participate in Teens and Toddlers have had negative experiences of school and aren’t wholly engaged. Some struggle due to social, emotional and communication needs, while others find it difficult to reintegrate back into school after long periods out of school.”
“Just by being their wonderful, beautiful selves, the children engage the young people in conversation and help to break down their barriers.”
“The toddlers empower the young people to take part in activities they haven’t done in years – or didn’t feel confident doing – gently encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones.”
“Spending the day with the toddlers brightens the young people’s day. It helps them realise they can be good communicators, build relationships with both adults and peers, and they can succeed. And we see the confidence they build through Teens and Toddlers filtering back into school.”
“A lot of the young people work really hard to gain the Level 1 qualification on Teens and Toddlers. It gives them the confidence when they’re going into their GCSE’s to think, well I’ve already got this qualification, I can build upon that, concentrate in lessons and
I can achieve.”
“The programme helps them find something they’re absolutely amazing at and it gives them something to be truly proud of.”
Upon completing the programme, the young people achieve a nationally recognised NCFE Level 1 qualification in Interpersonal Skills. This can often become a turning point, helping them to reframe how they see themselves and their future potential.
