Learning for Life & Work

Coordinator: Dr G Hull

Learning for Life and Work has been included as a key component of the Revised Curriculum because research indicated a need for closer links between the curriculum and the development of skills and capabilities necessary for life and work. It concluded that young people require an engaging and relevant curriculum that:

• helps them develop as individuals and members of society;
• delivers the skills and capabilities needed for adult life and work;
• helps them cope with the changing global economy; and
• helps them learn how to make informed choices.

To meet this need, the Revised Curriculum objectives and LLW contribute directly to developing the young person as:

• an individual;
• a contributor to society; and
• a contributor to the economy and environment.

Learning for Life and Work supports other key components of the Revised Curriculum like Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities. It provides opportunities for pupils to develop skills, knowledge, understanding, attitudes and values that help them:

• prepare for adult life, independent living and work;
• meet the challenges and opportunities of contemporary society; and
• make informed decisions and take responsible action throughout their lives.

Learning for Life and Work at CAI currently encompasses three strands at Key Stages 3 & 4:

• Education for Employability
• Local and Global Citizenship
• Personal Development

It is generally taught through active participation with pupils encouraged to involve themselves in class discussion and debate.

Year 10 Lava Flow Challenge

One of the first activities that Yr10 pupils complete in Learning for Life and Work is the Lava Flow Challenge. This activity involves two teams of pupils competing to see who can get from one end of the gym to the other first. Sounds easy? Not so. Pupils are only allowed to stand on one of seven small stations on the floor or on one of the three blanks of wood they have been given. To complicate matters even more some pupils will have their eyes closed, some will be unable to use certain limbs, whilst others are not permitted to speak.

As well as being a highly enjoyable and competitive exercise the Lava Flow Challenge has a more serious side. Pupils gain an understanding of the elements which contribute to good teamwork, apply and evaluate their teamwork skills and recognise how body language is used as an important means of communication.