Cafe work helps SEND students gain life skills

Young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are being helped to prepare for life beyond the classroom by working in a park's cafe.

Launched last June, the cafe at Ulley Park in Rotherham is run by staff and pupils from Rotherham Opportunities College (ROC), which supports young adults aged 16-25 with learning disabilities and/or autism.

Students spend approximately nine hours a week there learning about customer service and working in the cafe.

Justin, one of the students, said working on the till had helped develop his "maths and money skills" and he also enjoyed his interactions with customers.

"I like to talk to the regulars - it helps my speech. John and Jean are my favourites," he said.

Since opening its doors last summer, the cafe had helped more than 40 students to develop practical life skills, according to the college.

Of the 30 leavers last year, 14 went on to secure either paid employment or voluntary work after successfully completing their courses and five were now living semi-independently, an ROC spokesperson said.

In addition, three students went on to further education studying at Level 3 or higher, with one student now working towards completing a degree.

Dr Perdita Mousely, ROC principal, said the aim of the cafe was to equip those taking part with "the vital skills to enjoy rich and fulfilling lives in adulthood".

"Providing work experience in a safe, welcoming environment has helped many of our learners go on to secure jobs in the hospitality industry," she said.

Dr Mousely said those students working at the cafe had developed "important life skills" over the last six months, such as "how to communicate effectively, preparing food safely and learning about handling money".

Ellie, who began her time at college with selective mutism, a condition that leaves people unable to speak in certain situations, is another student working in the cafe.

According to catering co-ordinator Gaynor Cooper, since starting work there Ellie had become "a confident, chatty and talkative young lady, desperate to get involved".

Ms Cooper added that although the needs of the students were all different, they could all "grow into amazing young adults".

"Some have difficulty with social skills. For some it's communication. Some struggle with basic numeracy. Whatever it is, we'll help and support them," she said.

Victoria Cusworth, Rotherham Council's cabinet member for children and young people, said she was "pleased to welcome the students in the cafe".

"We can see the positive impact it has had on the visitor experience at Ulley Country Park," she said.

"Taking part has helped students to achieve a greater sense of independence and personal growth by developing their skills as they prepare for adulthood."

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