Departmental Staff
- Mrs A Breen (Head of Department)
- Mr J Keaveney
- Mr C Mc Flynn
- Miss C Teague
- Mr J White
- Miss B Sludden
- Mr K Donnelly
- Miss M Ramsey
Department Overview
Teachers delivering Learning for Life and Work aim to equip students with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to thrive in modern society. Learning for Life and Work is a broad and engaging subject designed to support the development of the whole student. It goes beyond traditional academic learning by focusing on the practical skills, knowledge and understanding needed to navigate everyday life. The subject encourages students to develop independence, resilience and confidence, while also promoting wellbeing and informed decision-making. Through a range of relevant and real-life topics, students are supported in understanding themselves, building positive relationships and recognising their role within an increasingly diverse and interconnected society. Learning for Life also provides opportunities for discussion, reflection and active participation, helping students to develop critical thinking skills and a strong sense of responsibility as individuals and as members of a community.
Key Stage 3 - Overview
Learning for Life and Work is a compulsory subject at Key Stage 3, made up of three key strands: Local and Global Citizenship, Personal Development, and Employability. Students study this subject once a week for part of the academic year.
Personal Development focuses on the growth of the individual, helping pupils understand themselves, their health, and their relationships. It supports them in becoming emotionally, socially, and physically confident, enabling them to lead healthy, safe, and fulfilling lives. Through this strand, pupils are encouraged to develop independence and responsibility, making informed choices as they prepare for adulthood. Schools play an important role in guiding pupils through everyday challenges, using real-life contexts to strengthen their skills and overall development.
Local and Global Citizenship enables pupils to explore key issues such as diversity, human rights, equality, and democratic participation. It helps them understand how to engage positively in society and make informed, responsible decisions as citizens. Pupils are encouraged to discuss real-life and sometimes controversial topics, helping them clarify their values and attitudes. Through this, they also learn to manage their emotions and behaviour in different situations, preparing them for active and thoughtful participation in the wider world.
Employability gives pupils the chance to explore key areas such as the local and global economy, career planning, and entrepreneurship. It aims to develop the knowledge, attitudes, and personal qualities needed for lifelong learning and future work or further education. Through real-life, relevant contexts, pupils gain insight into different career paths and begin to recognise their own strengths and abilities. They are also encouraged to value job satisfaction and make well-informed decisions about their future based on an understanding of the working world.
Key Stage 4 - LLW
At Key Stage 4, it becomes an optional subject that pupils can choose to continue at GCSE level.