About
Making Skills
Practical learning that inspires confidence, independence and real-life skills
Every young person deserves the opportunity to learn in a way that helps them succeed. Making Skills provides practical, engaging learning opportunities for young people who thrive through hands-on experiences. Whether studying online or attending personalised in-person provision, every programme is designed to build confidence, independence and skills that last a lifetime.
We believe every learner deserves to feel successful. Through supportive teaching, meaningful practical activities and personalised guidance, we help young people discover what they can achieve.
Cook
Care
Make
Create
Grow
Build
Express
Nurture
Innovate
Explore
Confidence and Growth
Supportive Community
Practical Learning
Real Life Skills
Belonging and Wellbeing
Learning by doing through meaningful, hands-on experiences.
A welcoming environment where every learner feels valued and encouraged.
Building confidence, independence and practical skills for everyday life.
Helping learners recognise their strengths and achieve their potential.
Creating a safe, positive space where every young person can thrive.
Our Story
Making Skills was founded to create practical learning opportunities for young people who don't always thrive in traditional classrooms.
After many years teaching in schools and alternative provision, I saw first-hand how confidence grows when learning becomes meaningful, practical and personalised.
Today, Making Skills combines nationally recognised qualifications with engaging hands-on provision, accessible both online and in-person, helping learners develop the confidence, independence and life skills they need for the future.
Meet Claire
Hello, I'm Claire
With over 20 years of experience in education, I specialise in Food Technology, Design & Technology and supporting young people who learn best through practical, hands-on experiences.
I created Making Skills because I believe every learner deserves the opportunity to develop confidence, independence and skills for life in an environment where they feel supported, encouraged and able to succeed.
My approach
I believe the best learning happens when young people feel safe, supported and inspired to have a go. Every lesson combines practical activities, encouragement and personalised guidance to help learners build confidence while developing real-life cooking skills.
Qualified Teacher
Over 20 years' teaching experience across primary, secondary and alternative education.
Specialist Food Teacher
Food Technology specialist with extensive experience teaching practical cooking and food preparation.
SEND & EOTAS Experience
Over a decade supporting learners with SEND, SEMH and those educated outside mainstream settings.
Personalised Support
Every learner receives individual guidance, feedback and encouragement throughout the course.
Building Confidence
Helping young people develop confidence, independence and practical skills that last a lifetime.
"Every learner is different, and that's exactly how it should be. My role isn't simply to teach cooking—it's to encourage confidence, celebrate progress and help every young person achieve more than they thought possible."
— Claire
Encouraging
Creating a positive learning environment where learners feel confident to ask questions and try new things.
Flexible
Supporting learners around family life, appointments and individual learning needs.
Celebrating Success
Recognising every achievement, from mastering a new skill to gaining a nationally recognised qualification.
Meet Claire
Hello, I'm Claire
With over 20 years of experience in education, I specialise in Food Technology, Design & Technology and supporting young people who learn best through practical, hands-on experiences.
I created Making Skills because I believe every learner deserves the opportunity to develop confidence, independence and skills for life in an environment where they feel supported, encouraged and able to succeed.
My approach
I believe the best learning happens when young people feel safe, supported and inspired to have a go. Every lesson combines practical activities, encouragement and personalised guidance to help learners build confidence while developing real-life cooking skills.
Qualified Teacher
Over 20 years' teaching experience across primary, secondary and alternative education.
Specialist Food Teacher
Food Technology specialist with extensive experience teaching practical cooking and food preparation.
SEND & EOTAS Experience
Over a decade supporting learners with SEND, SEMH and those educated outside mainstream settings.
Personalised Support
Every learner receives individual guidance, feedback and encouragement throughout the course.
Building Confidence
Helping young people develop confidence, independence and practical skills that last a lifetime.
"Every learner is different, and that's exactly how it should be. My role isn't simply to teach cooking—it's to encourage confidence, celebrate progress and help every young person achieve more than they thought possible."
— Claire
Encouraging
Creating a positive learning environment where learners feel confident to ask questions and try new things.
Flexible
Supporting learners around family life, appointments and individual learning needs.
Celebrating Success
Recognising every achievement, from mastering a new skill to gaining a nationally recognised qualification.