The Breakout group, part of the ‘OpenDoor’ supported learning programme, is a programme of study for young people with a learning disability aged 16 to 24. The programme runs three day per week, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 9 – 3. The programme focuses on life and employment skills covering many areas including, Travel Training, Maths, English, ICT, Skills for Work, Independent Living Skills, Leisure Courses and Social Skills/Activities many of the programmes are accredited. The programme is individualised for each young person and as part of this programme many of the young people undertake a supported work placement, ususally outside of the three day programme.
Supported Learning Programme, part of the ‘OpenDoor’ programme, courses run for two hour weekly sessions, across all areas of Gateshead (many in the Dryden Centre) All courses are free of charge to anyone on JSA/ESA. These 2 hour sessions range from arts and drama to employability and ICT, beginning in September every year. Some run for one term (10wks) but most for 30 weeks – many are accredited-please contact us for the full list of current courses.
Catering Enterprise, skills based enterprise to support our learners to gain the skills required to help them towards employment or volunteering. Learners need to attend a minimum of three core days per week, Tuesday to Thursday 9 to 12.30. The learners will gain accreditation in catering skills, volunteering and employability skills.
Interchange Interns, learningSkills deliver at their Interchange Centre, the accredited academic element of a joint working initiative with Gates who are supporting work placements with 16-24 year old people with a range of learning disabilities across Gateshead. It is a full day programme to support the skills required for the work place and includes, Maths, English, ICT and Employability.
The Club, is a social activity running from Bensham Grove Community Centre, to support learners with a learning disability and their parents to work together, often building good support and friendship networks. The club provides opportunities for adults to develop social and communication skills and promotes independence and self-esteem through activities specifically designed for individuals within the group.