Second year students at Harding House are in the Gladstone Class. Building on those skills developed in the Hampden group, we continue to expand our knowledge and understanding, with particular emphasis on Functional Skills, work related tasks, independence, interpersonal skills and personal responsibility. There is also a strong emphasis on ICT and Media – students learn to use up to date technology - iPods, iPads, internet, email, Skype and laptops, just like their peers. All students’ work is accredited and certificated by OCR on the National Skills Profile and Entry Level Life and Living schemes.
Students also set personal IEP targets and evaluate their own progress, and produce PowerPoint presentations and Student Contributions for their Annual Review meetings.
Students work towards their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award, completing the required sections - Volunteering, Physical, Skills and Expedition – all promoting excellent teamwork skills!
We are currently volunteering with Community Impact Bucks, a charity that provides comprehensive support and a strategic voice for the voluntary and community sector and rural communities. Students take part in a range of gardening activities for those in need. We are also volunteering alongside Aylesbury Youth Action an organisation that provides volunteering opportunities for a new generation. Various projects provide students with a heightened awareness of their community involvement responsibility.
Students have the opportunity to complete work experience placements through the Education Business Partnership. If appropriate these are supported by Gladstone group staff. Internal work experience opportunities provide students with a wide skills set - they are currently running The Independent Office on site at Harding and complete a range of tasks, both internal and for the Federation.
We operate a Merit System – students are very motivated and work towards achieving their personal ‘Red Letter Days’.
One of our main projects this year is our Recycling Project. Students have been learning about the environment and sustainability of products. Students are creating a range of art and craft items and producing clothing and accessories from recycled products.
Currently there are 5 Year 13 students in the Gladstone Group, with 1 Tutor, 1 Senior Learning Support Assistant, with specialist ICT, Communication, Numeracy and Work Experience input.