Improving Choices

The Improving Choices course is designed for young people, who are aged from 16 to 25 and have learning difficulties and disabilities.  Our aim is to empower these young people to fulfil their potential and find their place in the world. We do this by creating a tailored programme to suit the individual’s needs, in a relaxed learning environment. The Improving Choices course is equivilent to full time college, students can attend for 1-3 years.

“Before coming to Youth Matters, my experiences of education were frustrating. I found the learning difficult, unhelpful and boring. I enjoy being at Youth Matters more than the other places I have been to, it is a more relaxing atmosphere and the tutors treat us more like adults.”

Improving Choices will help the young person to decide what they want to do with their future and gain the appropriate skills. Alongside the core subjects, vocational development, literacy and numeracy, students can choose from a range of additional curriculum subjects such as art, cookery and horticulture.

“I would like to become a personal trainer and so I have a lesson on anatomy and visits to the local gym. The tutors have arranged for me to gain work experience in a leisure centre to prepare me for work after leaving Youth Matters.”

Improving Choices looks at the young person as a whole, so as well as the academic element, there is also a focus on social development and independent living skills. Students are provided with opportunities to build their confidence and self-esteem through engaging in new activities in the community. Students are supported in gaining new skills needed to live independently, such as using a washing machine, independant travel and form filling (Passport, Driving License).

“During my time at Youth Matters, I have completed new tasks, such as using trains, bowling and fishing, golf (at a driving range). From this, I have gained the experience to go out and enjoy myself independently.”

Students will gain qualifications in ICT, Literacy, Numeracy and personal skills such as team working and time management.