AEW Life Skills in the Community - ICT Neil Dougherty Centre This year, Diwali will be celebrated on Monday 20th October.AEW Life Skills ICT Students at the Neil Dougherty Centre have been using and developing their ICT skills to discover facts about Diwali. First, they used Microsoft Teams to post Diwali greetings to each other on the Class Page. Then, they found their Assignments on Teams, which included a Diwali Research Task and a Diwali PowerPoint challenge, where they had to format text and insert pictures and videos into a template.They discovered that: • The word Diwali means 'rows of lighted lamps'. • It is celebrated by Hindu people across the world.• Diwali is known as the 'festival of lights' because houses, shops and public places are decorated with small oil lamps called 'diyas'.• Diwali is also celebrated in Sikhism and Jainism.• Diwali always falls some time between October and November, but the exact date varies each year as the Hindu calendar is ba...

Life Skills students recently took part in an exciting canal boat trip from Whitmore Reans to Wightwick. The journey provided a valuable opportunity to engage with the local community and explore the idea of local citizenship. Along the way, students learned how volunteers help maintain the canal network by clearing litter and caring for the surrounding wildlife. As they travelled, students observed a variety of birds, fish, and insects, gaining a greater appreciation for the natural environment. The trip also helped develop practical life skills, some students made their own way to the venue, while others practised reading bus timetables and planning routes using public transport.  A stop at Compton gave students the chance to apply their money management skills by purchasing chips, turning a simple activity into a meaningful learning experience. Many students described the trip as relaxing and enjoyable, and said it had a positive impact on their mental wellbeing. 

Donna Booth has been studying at Adult Education Wolverhampton (AEW) since September 2021. Now in her fifth year, she has worked her way through a range of courses, including GCSE Maths and English, and is currently studying to work in a school with the ambition of becoming a teaching assistant.  For much of her life, Donna struggled without knowing why. She wasn't diagnosed with dyslexia until sixth form, which left her doubting her abilities and her self-worth. "I didn't think I was smart enough. I didn't feel I was good enough, because I'd just been put down basically all my life." When she first came to AEW, she found it overwhelming. She would often leave classes in tears, frustrated and convinced she couldn't do it. She describes herself at that time as someone with "no confidence, no self-esteem, nothing." Since starting at entry level three, Donna has successfully progressed to GCSE level. Last year, she achieved a Level 3 in both Maths and English, coming close to a Level...

Our students recently visited the University of Wolverhampton's library, where they had the opportunity to explore the facilities and take part in a guided university tour. The visit was designed to introduce them to academic resources, inspire future aspirations, and build confidence in navigating higher education environments. Experiencing a university setting first-hand is incredibly beneficial - it helps demystify the idea of university life, encourages independent learning, and gives students a sense of belonging in academic spaces. The library itself offered a glimpse into the wealth of support available, from digital tools to quiet study zones. Here's what some of our students had to say: "I didn't know libraries had so much - it made me want to study more." "The tour was really fun. I liked seeing where students hang out and work." "It felt welcoming. I could imagine myself going there one day." "I enjoyed learning how to find books and use the computers - i...

Adult Education Wolverhampton - Life Skills team - held an Induction and Information Session for students enrolled on its Supported Internship and Supported Programmes on Thursday 11th September. The team welcomed the new intake and some of their parents and carers, along with Emma and Jamahl from Wolverhampton Council's Supported Employment Team who will be working with them on their journey towards securing sustainable paid employment. Those attending found out more about what the programmes involve, vocational profiling, work experience and systematic instruction. Emma and Jamahl did some brilliant, engaging activities with the students, involving books, socks, paper clips and t-shirts to find out what students can do. Students were very well supported in the session by Teacher, Jonathan, and a Learning Support Assistant, Carole.Emma and Jamahl met with students individually, to gain further information that will help secure the right work experience placement for them, tailore...

Celebrating Creativity, Community, and Charity! Our Summer Arts and Crafts stall was a fantastic success, showcasing the beautiful handmade crafts created by our Life Skills students. The event not only highlighted their creativity but also aimed to support a cause close to their hearts: the Children's Ward at New Cross Hospital, a charity chosen by the students themselves. Students and staff worked together to organise the event, with generous donations of gifts for a tombola that helped boost our fundraising efforts. A big thank you to the Move On: Engaging with Independence and the Community students who supported on the day: Morning: Aaron Randhawa, Andrew Beardsmore, Carole Butlin Afternoon: Abby Burgess, Matthew Harper, Emsy (Emerlene) Michaels These students gained hands-on experience in money management by handling payments and giving change, while also building their customer service skills through engaging with visitors and welcoming future Life Skills students. We're proud t...

AEW staff and students were delighted to welcome so many visitors to the SEND Open Event held in May.Our guests were able to meet staff and current students, find out lots of helpful information about our Life Skills learning programmes and visit the Craft Fair run by our students, who were selling a great range of items they had made themselves. They were also treated to a wonderful spread of food and refreshments, prepared and cooked by our students and staff.We were also joined by Emma Carless from the Council's Supported Employment Team and Melissa Tharm from Fox Training, to advise current and future students on progression to employability learning programmes and securing paid employment. Many thanks to all our guests, and to all staff and students involved for their dedication, support and hard work in making the event such a success. 

Thanks to Mark Taylor, Deputy Chief Executive of Wolverhampton Council, for taking time out of his busy schedule to visit Adult Education Wolverhampton (AEW) as part of the drive to meet as many staff groups across the council.Mark, a great advocate of adult education, was keen to learn more about the inner workings of AEW and talked to Anna, the Deputy Head of Service, and the student services team about safeguarding and the wider aspects of their role.

ESOL Pre-Entry students participated in the VE Day celebrations at the Hope Centre, joining senior citizens for a memorable and heartwarming event. There were nostalgic talks by seniors, who shared stories from their past and brought along treasured photos and letters to relive their memories. Students took part in games, including a lively session of Bingo, which they thoroughly enjoyed. The event was a great success, filled with laughter, learning, and a strong sense of community. 

On Tuesday, 6th May, our Life Skills students welcomed Lauren Beaman from The Haven Wolverhampton, who visited to collect the generous donations of toiletries gathered by our students and staff, along with £80 raised through a cupcake sale. Lauren took the opportunity to speak with the class about the vital work her organisation does to support women and children affected by domestic abuse. The students, who had contributed to the donations, listened attentively and asked thoughtful questions, demonstrating genuine empathy and understanding. It was a powerful and meaningful experience that helped our learners connect their classroom learning with real-world issues, reinforcing the importance of compassion, community, and standing up for those in need. The Haven joins me in extending heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the donations. We were able to fill six cardboard boxes with toiletries for The Haven. Special thanks to Siobhan Munger for baking multiple batches of cupcake...

Life Skills students visited the Grand Theatre in Wolverhampton, where they gained insight into the behind-the-scenes roles that bring productions to life, alongside learning about renowned performers. They explored the front of house and were thrilled to go backstage, where they saw the props and dressing rooms. They were surprised by how small the dressing rooms were and how close they were to the stage! Inspired by the tour, students expressed their enthusiasm, with one saying, "Theatre and acting is one of the things I am most interested in, love, and inspires me." They were eager to show their appreciation by volunteering to write thank-you letters to the education team who showed them around. As part of National Careers Week, students had been learning about employability and volunteering in the local area. This visit deepened their understanding of theatre-related careers and sparked their curiosity about potential opportunities in the field, prompting them to ask about voluntee...

Life Skills students have been expanding their personal interests and knowledge through a visit to the Think Tank Museum in Birmingham, as part of the Love to Learn theme.  The students chose to explore science and its significance in their lives. They were particularly excited by the new exhibition showcasing the history of computers and sharing stories about local individuals. They enjoyed interacting with the exhibits and are eager to return to explore more of the museum.  Students practiced their money management skills by independently purchasing items at the café and shop and demonstrated a strong awareness of personal safety throughout the visit. Overall, the day was a great success, with students showcasing transferable and independent living skills while enjoying the opportunity.

Over 60 ESOL students joined in the Well-being event organised by Adult Education Wolverhampton to celebrate the completion of the UKSPF programme. Students and volunteers enjoyed yoga, crafts and buttonhole making. Big favourites included learning basic sign language and the healthy eating demonstrations. Students accessed information on health and other learning opportunities. Students also got to grips with coping with the cost of living crisis with the support of Multipy staff and volunteers. With delicious healthy refreshments and plenty of opportunity to chat and connect with others, the day is a big boost for everyone's well-being. One student said "I only planned to stay for the morning, but I'm having so much fun I want to stay for the whole day". Thank you to All Saints WorkSpace for hosting this wonderful event and to all the Adult education staff for sharing their passion and expertise.

On 12 December 2024, Life Skills students from AEW hosted their annual Frost Fair at our main site in Old Hall Street. They continued the Fair at our Maltings site and made a further £81.74 from sales bringing the total to £266.60 for the Air Ambulance.- The Gonk was named Archie and was won by Judith- The unicorn was named Rosie and is waiting to be collected by Rizkan- Jordan guessed the nearest number of sweets in the Jar which was 40During the year Life Skills students take part in an enterprise project where they develop their employability, communication and teamwork skills. The Frost Fair allows them the opportunity to improve their money skills whilst selling arts, crafts and festive snacks.Sending many thanks to all involved.

Life Skills students visited the Science and Technology event at Newhampton Arts centre. Students were immersed in an exciting day of activities to expand their knowledge of science and technology as they engaged with a local community project run by Arun Bector and Wolverhampton University. Activities included making DNA bracelets and looking through microscopes and infrared images of themselves. On the trip students continued to develop everyday transferrable skills such as communication and social interaction, listening, and working with others. Students said they enjoyed trying out the experiments and in particular, they learned interesting new facts about the human body.

Frankfurt German Market visitLife Skills students have been making steps towards independence by organising an offsite visit they have planned and budgeted for. They decided as a group where and when they would visit and how they would travel, taking the initiative to research the Metro timetable and discuss safety on public transport. In addition, they researched the cost of travel, and dining out and estimated the cost of purchasing goods during the day which they then budgeted and saved for.Students visited Birmingham's Frankfurt Market, where they enjoyed exploring the stands while tasting a variety of food and purchasing unique seasonal products from Germany. They went for a meal where each student paid for food and drinks, further developing their money management skills. The day was a resounding success, with students demonstrating a range of transferable and independent living skills. They are ready and well on their way to planning their next trip to Birmingham.  Enter yo...

"I am currently a stay-at-home mother to my 3 children and believe that it is essential to learn skills that will help me to develop myself and to have the tools and skills to help my children. Attending classes has never been a problem for me as I love learning and appreciate that the more I attend the more I learn. I have only missed one class in the whole time I have been studying with AEW. I love the classroom environment and my interaction with my fellow students. We not only learn from the course teacher but from each other too, making it a wonderful environment in which to study. Having good attendance has enabled me to cover all aspects of each course working my way from beginner to my current Level 3 Digital skills qualification. In today's digital world, my qualifications will help me with general day-to-day life and will be a great asset to me for future learning and employment."

Congratulations to the Life Skills groups, Exploring the Community and Everyday Life Skills who took part in the Community Science fair at Newhampton Arts Centre and won a prize for their exhibit. They worked collaboratively to make a patchwork blanket for a competition based on heat transfer organised by Arun Bector. The exhibition included work from other community and educational groups. Having learnt about convection, conduction and radiation the students used their knowledge to produce a square each which was then made into a blanket.

110 ESOL students and their teachers headed off to Bridgnorth to celebrate the end of another successful year. Students from all classes were invited to come together in the castle grounds and share a picnic. The staff had created a town treasure hunt that involved students using their English skills to navigate maps, follow directions and then answer a set of questions. Adult Education Wolverhampton's ESOL courses support students with more than developing their own English Skills. Students are encouraged to build relationships with others, develop their confidence, resilience and problem-solving skills. The ESOL teachers also ensure that students' knowledge of the local area is embedded within their classes to promote integration. Some students are already thinking of taking their family and friends to places they've been introduced to throughout the course. "It's really important that students get a chance to use their English outside of the classroom whilst also...

The annual Life Skills celebration event took place on Wednesday 3 July. The event welcomed over 100 of our students with a learning disability and their parents/carers to celebrate their learning achievements. Special guest Brenda Wile, Deputy Director of Education was invited to give out the certificates. Courses focus on what students can do and not what they cannot and this year has been no different. This year students have taken part in lots of activities aimed at challenging them to become more independent; to make friends, to develop relationships, and to get to know their community. Good health and wellbeing are at the centre of all we do as we promote lifelong learning and the move toward employment or volunteering. • Courses focus on what students can do and not what they cannot and this year has been no different. • This year students have taken part in lots of activities aimed at challenging them to become more independent; to make friends, to develop relationships, and to...