A Day on a Custom Course

Customised courses are just life skills applied! They provide an amazing opportunity for young people to learn new skills and then actually apply them to everyday situations!

It’s always wonderful to watch the learners grow over the week. Working with them 1-1 means we build up such a great rapport and with steady encouragement and kindness, the learner’s confidence can really develop so much. It’s also heaps of fun to go on day trips with the learners, exploring their interests and challenging them too!

A year or so back, I worked with a wonderful learner whose week was tailored mostly to self-esteem, confidence and leadership. The aim of our trips was to empower the learner to be independent, speak up for themselves and take risks. I think one of our most exciting days was going to the Victoria & Albert exhibition to see the Alice In Wonderland exhibition. The learner was really interested in literature so it was an amazing experience for them to learn about something they love.

Usually, the day is split into two sections. One part of the day will revolve around learning new skills through sessions that the Role Model will run. The other part will be about embedding those skills and empowering the learner to use those skills through activity. For example, in the morning we could look at effective communication and leadership language and then in the afternoon visit an escape room. Being able to cement skills directly after learning them is so effective as it allows the learner such a great sense of achievement. Building this inner-confidence enables them to continue to take these kinds of challenges in their stride!

I think they really find the 1-1 relationship very valuable. Especially for learners who are lacking in confidence, having someone there to reassure and encourage them can do wonders for their self-esteem and confidence. They also really love the hands-on nature of it. Whilst our holiday courses are incredibly active, all the activities are set within a classroom/playground. However, with custom courses, learners can get out into the world and challenge themselves in an authentic way, all whilst having heaps of fun!