At National Online School, education is about more than qualifications. We want our students to leave us with the confidence, skills and experience they need to take their next steps, whether that’s further education, training, employment or greater independence.
A big part of this is our award-winning LIFE Programme, which focuses on four key areas: Leadership, Independence, Future Options & Employability and Empowerment. Each one helps students prepare for life now and as they move towards adulthood.
Leadership
Students are given opportunities to have their say, take responsibility and make decisions through Student Council, mentoring and other leadership roles. This helps them develop confidence and self-advocacy, take more initiative and become more responsible for their own choices.
Independence
Independence will look different for every student. LIFE supports students to develop everyday living skills, make decisions, think critically and set personal goals. The aim is to help them become more self-sufficient and build the practical skills and knowledge they need for life beyond school.
Future Options & Employability
Thinking about what comes next is an important part of LIFE. Students explore further education, vocational training and different careers while developing workplace skills including communication, teamwork and problem-solving through work experience and project-based learning.
For our college students, there is a greater focus on careers education. Students receive individual careers guidance and practical support with CVs, personal statements and applications, while exploring further education, apprenticeships and employment. They can also hear from guest speakers and use platforms including Unifrog and Springpod to research different pathways and access virtual work experience.
Students also have opportunities to gain real work experience. Recently, three of our students joined the marketing team for a week, getting involved in projects including social media content, photography, video and campaign planning. Some of their work is now set to be used in future National Online School campaigns.
Empowerment
LIFE also helps students understand themselves and the world around them. This includes learning about their rights and responsibilities, healthy relationships and effective communication, as well as ways to manage their emotions and build resilience.
For College students, this includes age-appropriate learning around health and safety, personal finance, sexual health and relationships, giving them knowledge they can use as they become more independent.
Learning Beyond Lessons
Preparing for adulthood doesn’t just happen in lessons. Our enrichment programme, workshops and after-school clubs give students the chance to explore their interests, socialise and experience new things. From cooking, fitness and art to animal clubs, students can choose activities they genuinely enjoy, build friendships and have a go at something they may not have done before.
Of course, life beyond school won’t look the same for everyone.
There isn’t one route that every National Online School student is expected to follow. For some, the next step might be further education or training, while others may be thinking about employment or becoming more independent. What matters is that students have opportunities to explore what interests them, understand the choices available and develop the skills they will need for what comes next.
