Integrating special interests

Megan, our Sixth Form Coordinator at Gretton School has shared some wonderful examples of Gretton students securing work experience placements linked to their special interests.

In one example, a young man who loved chocolate and, in particular, loved the story of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, used his interest in chocolate to help him to develop skills both inside and outside of the classroom.

He was encouraged to use chocolate as a means to understand concepts in Maths and Science, and to encourage him to write creatively in English. In addition, he was challenged to find ‘the best chocolate cake in Cambridge’, which resulted in weekly outings to sample the goodies on offer around the county!

Whilst doing this, he was developing independence skills linked to planning and taking public transport and interacting with staff to place and pay for orders. He would also rate the cakes afterwards, practising fundamental maths and analysis skills. Perhaps best of all, he was offered work experience in a social enterprise firm called Harry Specters - an award winning chocolate factory in Cambridge!

Another one of Gretton’s students has gained work experience at a rock climbing centre which, upon completion of his studies, turned into a permanent role for him. And another, with a specialist interest in trains, has secured a supported apprenticeship with a train line.

Cavendish Education exists in order to positively change the world for those with unique learning profiles. We aim for 100% of our students to achieve the ultimate outcome: progression on to FE, HE and a meaningful career.

If you are an employer interested in offering meaningful work experience opportunities or placements for neurodiverse young people, please do get in touch.