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In-Person Practical Provision

Practical learning. Real confidence. Skills for life.

A calm, supportive learning environment where young people develop confidence, independence and practical life skills through meaningful hands-on experiences.

Whether attending for one day, weekly sessions or a personalised programme, learners benefit from engaging activities in food, design technology, outdoor learning, animal care and creative projects—all tailored to their individual strengths and needs.

Qualified Teacher

1:1 and small group support

Practical Learning

SEND & EOTAS Friendly

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Cooking, nutrition, food safety, budgeting and practical skills

 

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Outdoor learning and gardening, growing food and learning about sistainability

Animal care, learning responsibility and how to care for others

Creativity and problem solving with Woodwork, 3D design and  ceramics

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 Confidence

Independence

Team Work

Communication

Practical Skills

Problem Solving

Every day is carefully planned around our learners' needs, interests and goals. Activities vary throughout the year, but each session combines practical learning, wellbeing and opportunities to develop confidence, independence and real-life skills.

Learners may take part in:

Practical Skills

âś” Cooking & Baking
âś” Design & Technology
âś” Art & Creative Projects
âś” Gardening & Growing
 

Outdoor Learning

âś” Animal Care
âś” Nature-Based Learning
âś” Environmental Projects
 

Life Skills

âś” Shopping & Budgeting
âś” Healthy Living
âś” Independent Living Skills
âś” Communication & Teamwork
 

Personal Development

âś” Confidence Building
âś” Problem Solving
âś” Wellbeing Activities
âś” Personalised Learning Projects

A Typical Day at Making Skills

Learners are welcomed into a calm, supportive environment. The day begins with a gentle check-in, helping everyone settle, connect and prepare for the day ahead.

Hands-on activities begin, such as shopping for ingredients, design technology, creative projects or outdoor learning, depending on each learner's personalised timetable.

Time to relax, enjoy a snack and socialise before the next practical session.

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Learners continue developing practical skills through meaningful activities such as cooking, design technology, gardening, creative arts or animal care.

Enjoy lunch together in a relaxed atmosphere. When cooking is part of the day, learners often enjoy the meals they have prepared themselves.

Afternoon activities may include outdoor learning, gardening, animal care, independent projects or life skills, building confidence, responsibility and resilience.

Learners reflect on their achievements, prepare for the following session and leave with a sense of success and pride in what they have accomplished.

Every learner follows a personalised programme, so activities and timings are adapted to meet individual needs, interests, weather conditions and learning goals.

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9:00am
 

Arrive & Wellbeing Check

9:30–10:30am
 

Practical Learning

10:30–11:00am
 

Break

11:00am–12:30pm
 

Practical Session

12:30–1:00pm
 

Lunch

1:00–1:55pm
 

Afternoon Learning

1:55pm
 

Reflection & Home Time

Frequently asked questions

Who is the provision suitable for?

Making Skills welcomes referrals from Local Authorities through EOTAS and Alternative Provision arrangements, referrals from schools, and enquiries directly from families. We also welcome privately funded learners where our provision is the right fit. If you're unsure whether Making Skills is suitable, we'd be happy to discuss your child's individual needs.
 

How many learners attend?

We deliberately keep our provision small, with a maximum of four learners attending at any one time. This allows us to build strong relationships, provide personalised support and create a calm learning environment. We can also offer exclusive 1:1 provision where appropriate.
 

How are programmes personalised?

Every learner is unique, so every programme is too. We work closely with young people, families, schools and local authorities to create an individual learning programme that reflects each learner's interests, strengths, educational needs and personal goals. We adapt learning as confidence grows, ensuring every learner experiences success.
 

Can learners work towards qualifications?

Absolutely. Learners can work towards a range of recognised qualifications, including Pearson BTEC, Functional Skills, ASDAN and other accredited pathways, depending on their individual learning programme. Our aim is to help every learner achieve meaningful outcomes at a pace that is right for them.
 

Do you accept Local Authority referrals?

Yes. We welcome referrals from Local Authorities for learners accessing education through EOTAS or Alternative Provision arrangements. We are happy to discuss individual placements and work collaboratively with professionals to ensure the provision meets the learner's needs.
 

Can parents arrange a visit?

Of course. We encourage parents, carers and professionals to visit the provision before making any decisions. Visiting gives you the opportunity to meet us, explore the learning environment and see first-hand how Making Skills supports young people to thrive.

We'd love to show you around.
 

Where are you based?

Making Skills is located in central Cornwall, between Victoria and Lanivet, in a peaceful rural setting designed to provide a calm and supportive learning environment.

Do learners need to enjoy cooking or practical activities?

Not at all. Many young people join us having lost confidence in education or unsure of what they enjoy. Our role is to introduce learners to a range of practical experiences in a relaxed, supportive environment, helping them discover new interests, develop confidence and build skills for life.

Still have a question? Whether you're a parent, school or Local Authority professional, we're happy to answer any questions and arrange a visit to see Making Skills in action. 

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