Future Forward Programme
Empowering Students for Life Beyond School
Our Future Forward programme equips Sixth Form students with the tools and knowledge they need to navigate the journey beyond academia with confidence and clarity. Our comprehensive program offers a dynamic blend of lessons, workshops, and talks tailored to prepare students for the challenges and opportunities that await them in the real world.
Through engaging sessions led by industry experts, educators, and mentors, students will gain invaluable insights into various aspects of adult life, from career planning and financial literacy to personal development and wellbeing. Our goal is to empower students to make informed decisions, pursue their passions, and thrive in their future endeavours.
The programme is structured into the following key domains: Academic Excellence, Career Exploration, Financial Literacy, Mental and Physical Wellness, and Essential Life Skills.
Academic Excellence
In this segment of our program, students delve into effective study techniques, revision strategies, and the art of crafting a well-organised revision timetable. Through tailored sessions, students unlock the secrets to maximizing their academic potential, cultivating a disciplined approach to learning, and achieving stellar results.
Career Exploration
Students embark on a comprehensive exploration of various career pathways, including apprenticeships, gap years, work experience, and volunteering opportunities. Through engaging workshops and insightful discussions, students gain the required skills to navigating the intricacies of UCAS applications. Alongside our Careers Leader who works with students to identify career paths and university courses tailored to their individual interests and aspirations. Advice is also provided in crafting compelling CVs and letters of application and students get to hone interview techniques for both university and career scenarios. Our goal is to empower students to make informed decisions about their futures, whether they choose to pursue higher education or dive straight into the world of work.
Financial Literacy
In this phase of the programme, students dive into the essentials of financial management, covering topics such as student finance, maintenance loans, personal budgeting, saving strategies, and understanding rental agreements. Through engaging workshops and hands-on activities, participants will gain practical insights into handling bills, managing mortgages, and maximising the benefits of ISAs.
Mental and Physical Wellness
Students embark on a journey of self-discovery and wellbeing through essential topics such as stress management, building resilience, and promoting mental health. Through interactive sessions, students learn the importance of quality sleep, navigating relationships, understanding consent, and combating discrimination. Our program also equips students with vital knowledge on substance abuse prevention, staying safe in various environments including musical festivals, and maintaining personal safety while travelling (including obtaining VISAs, vaccinations, and travel insurance, as well as navigating travel routes safely). Students also gain practical skills in accessing healthcare services, from finding doctors and dentists to understanding emergency services like 111.
Essential Life Skills
While many life skills are traditionally learned at home, our school serves as an extension of the nurturing environment, where students learn from their home-from-home Dukie family.
In Centenary House, Sixth Form students engage in hands-on tasks like laundry and ironing under the guidance of dedicated houseparent’s and matrons, fostering independence and responsibility.
Additionally, students have the opportunity to acquire essential DIY and decorating skills through interactive sessions with our experienced Facilities Team. From mastering basic hand tools and household repairs to learning plumbing basics and electrical maintenance, students gain confidence in tackling household tasks effectively.
Practical ‘cooking on a budget’ sessions ensure students leave with a repertoire of recipes to fuel them in their independent living. They also learn essential clothing maintenance techniques from our Master Tailor, such as sewing on buttons and hemming trousers.
Moreover, students receive instruction on basic car maintenance from our Engineering Department, equipping them with knowledge of handling common issues like flat tires and checking fluids. All students leave our school with a First Aid certificate, empowering them to respond confidently in emergency situations.