Careers and training
People who come to My Life Works will...
- Develop a positive self-image, in relation to future learning and work roles, based on an accurate assessment and recording of their abilities and aptitudes
- Acquire aspirations for their future based on a sound understanding of the range of immediate and lifelong opportunities available through learning and work, and of career progression structures
- Develop skills to form and implement effective decisions and a reflective approach to learning from experience.
We want My Life Works members to enjoy taking part in a wide range of work experience placements both on and off site and in the community, with our support.
Our structured approach to a placement at My Life Works means that any member will be able to take away with them a portfolio of skills and experiences that they can use elsewhere. For example, if you work with us on hospitality, you will do some food hygiene training. In workshop environments, there might be health and safety training you can complete. My Life Works is all about preparing and equipping people with the knowledge and confidence that they can make a contribution in the world of work.
Sumaiyah makes light work of her placement at Barnado’s!
Despite initially being slightly hesitant to make decisions for herself, after building up good relationships with Barnardo’s staff and her support, she learnt to work more independently and showed a good level of confidence whilst completing her tasks.
Teaching Assistant Nichola Aspinall said:
“It has been lovely to see Sumaiyah develop and flourish within a real working environment – the positive attitude she now has towards work should be celebrated!”
Store Manager Helen Eccleston echoed Nicola’s praise, saying:
“At the start of the placement Sumaiyah needed quite a bit of support and prompting regarding tasks assigned to her, but over the weeks she has really blossomed.
Her confidence has grown and she has developed her skills and is now at a point where she uses her initiative to start new tasks without being asked.
Sumaiyah has also become extremely independent in undertaking any tasks assigned to her. Sumaiyah has a positive, friendly attitude and it has been a pleasure to have her working with us, she has become a valued member of our team.”
Luke shows he has green fingers during his work experience at The Grange Community Gardens
Learning Support Jane Crompton said of Luke:
“The Grange has proved a great placement for Luke. It’s a very welcoming and relaxing space that is used by many volunteers and has a real community feel about it. Luke has been enthusiastic about his placement. We have been working a lot on increasing Luke’s attention and independence when completing tasks. This is an area Luke is improving in and he had a great session re-planting 16 tomato plants recently, almost entirely independently (from sorting different varieties to making sure they were firmly bedded in). I was very proud of him.”
Liam demonstrates his passion for animals at Woodlands Animal Sanctuary
As part of his course, Liam has been undertaking a work placement at Woodlands Animal Sanctuary, where he has developed the skills required to care for various animals, from rabbits and horses to hedgehogs.
Liam has developed his resilience whilst working or, in his own words, learnt “to go with the flow and get on with the job.” Whilst at the animal sanctuary, he has developed a good understanding of the world of work. This has included working alongside others, listening to instructions and being able to carry out tasks efficiently and independently.
Alex Fisher, Manager of the sanctuary, has spoken very highly of Liam and says:
“Liam has now learnt how to clean out the rabbits unsupervised, clean the goats, horses, donkey and duck houses. Liam always arrives on time and is well presented. He is friendly and gets on well with the staff and volunteers here at Woodlands.”
Luke is in pole position as he helps out at Halfords
Fitting in well with the team, he has consistently demonstrated a positive attitude in the workplace and has been keen to learn new skills by undertaking tasks such as keeping the shelves ordered and stocked, as well as working in the bicycle department.
Halford’s General Manager Greg says of Luke:
“Luke has been working really hard and we are happy to have him on board, well done Luke, keep up the good work!”
What our work experience providers say…
We’re so proud of our learners, who give so much through their work experience. Here’s what just some of our work experience providers have to say about them.
“The group have been a big help over the last few weeks. It’s often the case that while groups get a lot out of being here, we don’t necessarily get much in the way of work in return. But your group have done everything asked of them really well and seem to take a real pride in what they do. Thanks again.”
Chris Taylor, Volunteer Co-ordinator, Let’s Grow Preston
“Bradley has been working with us since January and we couldn’t be happier with his progress. Customers and staff alike comment on how he has become so confident and content in his role.
Bradley greets all of our visitors and explains how Book Cycle works. He organises donated books, assists with small maintenance jobs and even creates posters and flyers. He makes a decent cup of tea too!
Bradley is a joy to be around. His pleasant demeanour brings visitors back time and time again and his work ethic has been a massive help to us.”
Rachel Palmer, Book Cycle
Transition (change).
At My Life Works we offer a bespoke transition programme tailored to the individual needs of each learner. Prior to joining, students will be offered the opportunity to visit and engage in taster sessions enabling them to become familiar with staff, peers and the site. During this time Student Services and our Transition team gather detailed information about each student to underpin their specialised curriculum and ensure student needs are met from day one.
Each year throughout their course students and guardians are invited to Information Advice and Guidance meetings along with Annual Reviews. These are used to help shape future transitions and destination pathways.
Towards the end of their course students engage in preparations for transitioning out. Students and families are supported by our Careers Lead and Job Coaches to explore options for a meaningful, positive future destination.