Summer 2017
This Is Me...
… is a Shine group for anyone between the ages of 11 and 18 who has Spina Bifida and/or Hydrocephalus.
The Moving Forward Issue
Moving on after GCSE’S Many of you will be taking exams this summer and will probably have already had to decide what you want to do next, or if you are taking exams next year you will need to start thinking about what you do next. There are lots of options available and it is important to make the choice that is right for you. Make sure you visit all the colleges that offer courses that you are interested in. If you have a “statement” or “EHCP” (Education, Health and Care Plan) in place and are going to need support ensure that you speak to the Learning Support team and discuss your needs with them. If you don’t like change and want to study in a familiar environment, and your school has a 6th form this may be the best option for you. However they may not be able to offer as many different courses as a college. You will need to decide if you are going to study A levels, BTECs or a vocational subject. Many young people with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus find it easier to study for BTEC’S as you complete assignments and are assessed throughout the course rather than having a final exam. Another option is an apprenticeship so that you can gain a qualification and receive training whilst working - check out the website www.getingofar.gov.uk If your exam results aren’t quite what you were hoping for you may need to rethink your plans. This may mean resitting GCSEs or deciding that you are going to study a different course or subject. Remember to think about transport and accessibility, will you need to catch the bus or get a train to college? It may mean that what you want to do is different to your friends, but you need to decide what is best for you. You will still be able to keep in touch with your school friends, and make new friends too! For further advice you can contact the National Careers Service on 0800 100 900 / www.gov.uk/careers-helpline-for-teenagers or have a look at www.allaboutschoolleavers.co.uk Angela Bailey Support & Development Worker and This Is Me Facilitator
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Inside Robin shares all about why change can be a good thing – page 2
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Healthy summer smoothie – page 3 Nicole and Rusty in the spotlight – page 3 Shine’s Bright Ideas pack is here – page 4
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