Millie studies on the Pathways to Adulthood course at the College. As part of our celebration of Supporting the Power of Specialist Further Education (1st–5th December), we asked Millie and her Dad, to reflect on their time at college so far.

Millie has made continual steps towards achieving her aspirations and Education, Health and Care Plan outcomes. Millie benefited from joining the Weston College transition link programme, attending one day a week, two years before enrolling on her course. This gave Weston College staff the opportunity to work closely with Millie and her familiar team from Baytree School. Through this link programme, Millie was able to explore and familiarise herself with the Weston team, new peers, specialist areas of the college, including the sensory learning base, and access other learner spaces.

Millie’s dad explained that, at first, they had never really considered further education for Millie, particularly not locally, as they were unsure it would be accessible for her. However, when Millie started attending the college link programme with her school, she really enjoyed it and felt confident this was the right step for their daughter.

Millie joined Weston College in 2023, starting the Pathways to Supported Adulthood course. She has made progress in all areas of her life, most notably in her engagement, anticipation, and interactions. Millie loves using assistive technology in a variety of ways, particularly to manipulate sensory-enriching resources. Through her communication achievements, she has been able to advocate her preferences by exploring a range of activities. Millie loves being out and about, busy places, music, sensory exploration, and particularly enjoyed the Preparation for Life student show.

Millie has gained confidence and resilience, ready to start her move to adulthood and life after college. She and her family have started exploring her next steps with the ongoing encouragement of the team, and the College will continue to support her through this next transition.

Congratulations to Millie - her journey so far reflects the confidence she has built and the progress she has made across every aspect of her life, and the positive impact of specialist further education.