Career Coaching Programme - Spread Your Wings For Young People

Our employability programme encourages young people with additional needs to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to support the transition into the workplace.

Spread Your Wings is delivered virtually to children aged from 12-15 years old through six online sessions after school, which are complemented with additional virtual sessions for parents/carers. Its aim is to support the young person and parent through a collaborative approach. 

Skylarks also works with local secondary schools and colleges to offer the programme to students ages 16 to 25, supporting those who have SEND. These learners have the content delivered to them in person during their educational day via the 6-week course, which is then followed up with updates to the learners and to also their parents and carers, unlocking new career pathways.

In the first session, the students dive into unravelling their personal strengths and qualities, enabling them to build on their sense of self and feel pride in their unique personalities.

They then move on to the importance of soft skills in life and work, before discussing a wide range of career options and training pathways.

Students hear inspiring stories from inclusive employers and peers, explore their knowledge of digital skills and gain confidence in understanding their financial income and preparing for independence.

The final session is the pivotal moment in the programme. Students will meet representatives from local businesses, charities, organisations, and the local authority who can connect them with real opportunities — such as apprenticeships, supported internships, and further support services. They’ll also hear from a specialist local organisation focused on helping young people with SEND move into employment, offering guidance for the next stage of their journey.

But Spread Your Wings is about more than just getting a job. It’s about helping each young person embrace their uniqueness, recognise the value of their personal qualities, and feel strong, authentic, and ready to move forward with confidence.

With thanks to the generous donors who have supported the programme, the course is free of charge for families who are taking part in our open-enrolment course, although donations are appreciated.

If you want more information or have a question, please contact: lucy@skylarks.charity