From art to LEGO, the first ever cohort on the Prior’s Court Graduate Programme are exploring how they can enhance how we support our young people.

As part of their 18-month placements with us, our 11 graduates must complete a supplementary project which enhances the lives of our young people and our provision.

Coming up to completely their first year with us, many of our graduates are in the process of finalising their projects which have focused on a range of topics including music and its value to our young people, sensory story interaction, and a study of one young person’s transitions.

One graduate, Jade Toovey, has explored Building Brick Therapy to introduce to young people a new method of play, while introducing the concept of colours and aiding colour differentiation; prepositions; and peer-to-peer communication.

Trialling the approach with twin brothers has seen the young people make noticeable progress in their methods of communication and peer interaction.

More information about Jade’s project can be seen in the most recent Prior’s Court Research Programme newsletter.

Graduate Autism Practitioner Clem Mueller’s supplementary project utilised her art degree, along with working closely with a colleague, Fran Spencer-Dixon from our Estates team.

Within the residential home where she had her first placement, Clem set up a mural project for the young people within the home to contribute to, including putting forward designs and painting elements of the artwork.

Cherri Cook, Graduate Programme Co-ordinator, said: “These are just two examples of the meaningful supplementary projects are our graduates are taking part, which have the potential to make a difference to the lives of our young people.

“All of our 11 graduates have made a real contribution to life at Prior’s Court in their 12 months with us so far, forging special bonds with young people and effective working relationships with staff members across the organisation.”

The second cohort of the Graduate Programme have begun their time at Prior’s Court this week and recruitment for the 2022/23 cohort will begin later this year.