Queen'scroft High School

 

Life & Living Curriculum (Sixth Form)

The Life & Living Curriculum in Sixth Form at Queen’s Croft High School is designed to prepare students for adulthood by developing independence, confidence and practical life skills.

Delivered primarily in Years 12 and 13, this curriculum underpins everything students do in Sixth Form and supports them to apply their learning in real-life contexts. It is closely aligned with students’ Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) outcomes and Preparation for Adulthood targets.

Our Core Qualification

The Life & Living Curriculum is underpinned by the OCR Life and Living Skills qualification suite.

This nationally recognised qualification is designed for learners working at Entry Levels 1, 2 and 3 and focuses on developing the practical skills needed for independent living, community participation and adult life.

The flexible structure of the qualification allows learning to be personalised, enabling students to work towards units that reflect their strengths, interests and future aspirations.

Why We Use OCR Life and Living Skills

We have chosen OCR Life and Living Skills because it:

  • supports personalised learning pathways

  • recognises meaningful progress through accredited units

  • values functional, real-life skills

  • aligns strongly with Preparation for Adulthood outcomes

  • builds confidence through achievable, step-by-step success

Students work towards units that can contribute to Awards, Certificates or Diplomas, with progress recognised throughout their Sixth Form journey.

Curriculum Aims

The Life & Living Curriculum aims to support students to:

  • develop independence and self-care skills

  • build confidence in everyday life situations

  • make informed choices and decisions

  • develop communication and social skills

  • prepare for adult responsibilities and work

  • engage positively with their local community

Learning is adapted to meet individual needs and reviewed regularly to support next steps.

Key Areas of Learning

Through the OCR Life and Living Skills framework, students may study units covering areas such as:

Independent Living

  • personal care and self-management

  • cooking, food preparation and nutrition

  • budgeting and managing money

  • time management and routines

  • travel training and using public transport

Communication and Relationships

  • communication in real-life contexts

  • building and maintaining relationships

  • teamwork and collaboration

  • self-advocacy and asking for help

  • understanding boundaries and consent

Community Participation

  • accessing local services and facilities

  • volunteering and community-based learning

  • understanding rights and responsibilities

  • developing confidence in public spaces

Health, Wellbeing and Safety

  • physical and mental wellbeing

  • managing emotions and stress

  • personal and online safety

  • understanding risk and making safe choices

Learning Beyond the Classroom

A key feature of the Life & Living Curriculum is learning beyond the classroom. Students regularly take part in:

  • community visits

  • practical, hands-on learning experiences

  • real-life problem-solving activities

  • work-related learning opportunities

These experiences help students transfer skills into everyday situations and build confidence in unfamiliar environments.

Personalised Pathways and Progress

Students follow personalised pathways aligned to their stage of development and future goals. Progress is measured through:

  • achievement of OCR Life and Living Skills units

  • progress towards EHCP outcomes

  • increasing independence and confidence

  • readiness for next steps

Learning programmes are reviewed regularly and adapted to ensure students continue to make meaningful progress.

Preparing for the Next Stage

The Life & Living Curriculum works alongside careers education, work experience and employability provision to support successful transitions beyond Sixth Form. This may include:

  • further education or training

  • supported internships

  • employment pathways

  • increased independence within the community

Further information about outcomes can be found in the Destinations & Alumni section of the Sixth Form area.

In Summary

The Life & Living Curriculum is central to Sixth Form life at Queen’s Croft High School. Underpinned by OCR Life and Living Skills, it supports students to develop the confidence, independence and practical skills they need to thrive as young adults and make positive choices for their future.

 

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