After six years at Regent College, Sam, 22, has completed his education pathway. He has achieved all his college aspirations, developed important skills, and transformed into a confident young adult ready for the adult world.
Sam is diagnosed with mental health support needs, autism, ADHD, cerebral palsy and global sensory difficulties. The independent young adult that Sam is today is a world away from the 16-year-old who joined Regent College.
He will be the first to tell you that he struggled to control his anger and high levels of anxiety. As a result, he needed 2:1 support.
“If it wasn’t for this college, I would have been home tutored. I was out of education for two years. No one would take me because I’d lash out with my behaviours.”
Sam’s journey at Regent College is a shining example of what a person-centred approach can make. With consistent support from Regent College, a curriculum that empowers access to real-life learning opportunities, and encouragement to follow his interests, Sam has developed greater confidence, independence, skills and self-awareness.
Building Skills Through Work Placements
When Sam first arrived at Regent College, he was supported to create a personalised study programme based on his interests, goals, and Education, Health and Care Plan outcomes.
Taking part in real-life activities in the community is an important part of the curriculum at Regent College. Work placements and volunteering have been a big part of Sam’s journey.
Throughout his time at Regent College, Sam has taken part in lots of community projects. These include work placements at the River Trust, Apedale Heritage Centre, Canals Trust, Furniture Mine, Walk Talk Action, Trentham Gardens, and Caudwell Children’s charity.
Of all the work placements and volunteering opportunities Sam has taken part in, his favourites have been working as a gardener at Trentham Gardens and volunteering with local mental health charity Walk Talk Action, which supports veterans.
A Passion for Photography
One of Sam’s biggest achievements has been developing his passion for photography into a career.
With support and encouragement from Regent College, Sam discovered that taking photographs wasn’t only a hobby. To gain experience in a professional setting, he started volunteering on match days at Newcastle Town FC and Stone Alleynians FC.
As his confidence bloomed and photography skills improved, he was eventually promoted to official football photographer at both clubs. Click here to read the story about his achievement.
Sam has developed a keen eye for photography and now sells his own landscape photos at events. He has created his own business cards and proudly hands them out to promote his work. His aspiration is to become a wedding and events photographer.
Growing Confidence Beyond the Classroom
Sam’s achievements extend beyond vocational skills. He has proudly achieved his Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award and is working towards his Silver Award.
He has qualified as a Football Association referee after completing a level 7 junior pathway, made possible by Regent College. As a big Manchester United fan, the opportunity to develop skills in an area of interest is a very proud moment.
Sam has also gained the confidence to share his own mental health experiences. He delivered mental health presentations to others and would help organise an annual mental health event at Regent College, encouraging discussions about well-being.
What’s more, Sam had the opportunity to train as an Oliver McGowan trainer.
Six years ago, this level of confidence would have been difficult for Sam to imagine.
Sam Achieves His Ultimate Goal
Sam has achieved all his personal aspirations while at Regent College, including becoming more independent and living independently in his own home.
He is now embarking on the next chapter of his life. Although Regent College will miss him immensely, they are bursting with pride at his achievements.
"Well done, Sam. You have worked hard to achieve your goals! We are all extremely proud of your remarkable journey. During your time at Regent College, you have taken every opportunity offered and are now ready for your next challenge."
