Pathways to adulthood

The Pathways to Adulthood (P2A) programme is designed for young people aged 16+ who need structured support in preparing for adulthood.

P2A blends vocational skill development, qualifications and personal support to ensure that young people are equipped to transition into further education or employment at their own pace.

Applied digital literacy and functional skills in English and maths are built into each pathway, all tailored to the level of the individual learner.

We use the AIM Employability and Development Vocational Qualification (Level 2) to create personalised learning portfolios for each young person based on their skills, pathway and interests. This runs in parallel with other sector-specific qualifications that can be acquired.

Land-based studies

The Dorset Green and Tidy pathway lets young people develop practical skills, experience and qualifications across a variety of outdoor work settings.

We run training courses and award industry-recognised LANTRA certificates in a range of land-based specialisms every term. Direct experience can be gained by working with professional equipment on contracts held with our trusted local partners.

Through a combination of structured learning and hands-on participation, learners can take part in activities such as grounds maintenance, gardening, habitat management, site maintenance and other land-based tasks. The programme is designed to provide a practical introduction to land-based industries, allowing learners to gain experience using tools, equipment and working practices commonly found across the sector.

Alongside practical activities, participants can develop Functional Skills in English and mathematics at a level appropriate to their individual ability. These sessions can help learners build confidence in the core skills needed for further education, training and employment.

The pathway offers an entry point into a wide range of careers, including grounds maintenance, horticulture, countryside management, local authority services and farming.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • LANTRA certification

  • Development and maintenance contracts leading to real job opportunities

Hospitality and catering

Dorset Wellbeing's hospitality and catering pathway gives young people the opportunity to develop practical cooking skills while gaining an understanding of food preparation, kitchen operations and food production.

Learners can take part in a range of activities across Dorset Wellbeing's sites, all of which have kitchen facilities and growing spaces. The pathway encourages an understanding of the journey from land to plate, allowing participants to be involved in growing, harvesting, preparing and cooking food. Activities may include meal preparation, menu planning, food handling, kitchen organisation and catering for small groups and events.

Alongside practical activities, participants can develop Functional Skills in English and mathematics at a level appropriate to their individual ability. These sessions can support the core skills needed for further education, training and employment.

Learners may also have the opportunity to work towards industry-recognised qualifications and training, ranging from food hygiene certificates through to Level 2 catering-related courses. The programme provides a practical introduction to hospitality and catering and can help prepare learners for further training, apprenticeships or entry-level roles within the food and hospitality sector.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Food Hygiene Level 1

  • COSHH Awareness Level 2

  • AIM Level 2 Employability & Development pathway in catering

  • Access to commercial catering opportunities

Building and construction

Dorset Wellbeing's building and construction pathway gives young people the opportunity to develop practical skills through hands-on work, structured activities and exposure to real construction-related tasks.

Learners can take part in a range of activities linked to basic construction, site preparation, tool use, maintenance, repair work and practical project-based tasks. The pathway is designed to introduce young people to different areas of the construction sector, helping them understand common working practices, materials, tools and expectations.

Alongside practical activities, participants can develop Functional Skills in English and mathematics at a level appropriate to their individual ability. These sessions can support the core skills needed for further education, training and employment.

Where appropriate, learners may also have the opportunity to work towards industry-recognised training and qualifications relevant to the construction sector, including pathways that can support the achievement of a CSCS card. The programme provides a practical introduction to the industry and can help prepare learners for entry-level roles such as construction labouring, site support work and further vocational training.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • CITB test (for access to obtaining CSCS site card)

  • Level 1 Health Safety & Awareness (HS&A)

  • AIM Level 2 Employability & Development pathway in construction

Motor mechanics

Motor Ready focuses on practical participation, skill development and exposure to real-world workshop environments, providing a structured introduction to the motor trade.

Dorset Wellbeing's motor mechanics pathway offers young people the opportunity to develop practical skills and experience within a working garage environment.

Based in a fully equipped mechanic's workshop, learners can take part in a range of hands-on activities, including vehicle maintenance, servicing tasks and basic mechanical repairs. The programme is designed to provide a practical introduction to the motor vehicle industry, allowing learners to gain experience working with real vehicles, tools and equipment under professional supervision.

Alongside practical workshop activities, participants can undertake units from the AQA Unit Award Scheme, gaining certificates to evidence their skills, knowledge and experience.

Where appropriate, learners may also have the opportunity to work towards entry-level industry training courses and qualifications, helping them prepare for future learning, training or employment opportunities within the automotive sector.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Tailored certificates from the AQA Unit Award Scheme

  • AIM Level 2 Employability & Development pathway in vehicle studies

If you know someone who might benefit from our services, or want to know more about our work, talk with us today

“Dorset Wellbeing have been fantastic with our son, giving him the support and tools to help him grow and feel part of society”

— Parent, Weymouth