In partnership with Neurodiversity SPARK and Belfast Metropolitan College, W5 LIFE hosted and co-delivered a fully funded course designed to support neurodiverse adults and equip them with the skills they need to thrive in today's digital world. The three-week course, funded by the Department for the Economy as part of the Skill Up Initiative, awarded participants OCN NI Level 2 Awards in Digital Skills for Life and Work.
Making Learning Accessible
The programme offered unique learning experiences focused on accessibility, empowerment, and providing a safe space to learn where confidence and curiosity could thrive.
Throughout the course, participants explored a range of topics—from word processing skills and data management to artificial intelligence and communication skills. The W5 LIFE team worked tirelessly to develop and adapt the course curriculum to meet each learner's needs and provide additional support where necessary.
The Impact of Skill Up
Traditional learning methods are not always accessible to neurodivergent adults, and unfortunately, fear can develop quickly in the classroom. To fully support the participants, the W5 LIFE team adopted a fluid approach that allowed the course to evolve and adapt in response to individual needs.
By encouraging questions and taking a strengths-first approach, the team helped build each participant's confidence, encouraging their curiosity and removing the fear of asking for support. The skills gained throughout this initiative will be vital as participants continue their learning journey, enter the workforce, and pursue upskilling opportunities.
One participant shared how beneficial they found the course: “I would say that this has been one of the best experiences of my life. When it comes to furthering my education, I would never have believed I could equip myself with the skills I now have. I am so thankful to have been given such a wonderful opportunity!"
Conor McKay, W5 LIFE Learning Centre Lead, said: “We at W5 LIFE have been very proud to offer this course specially tailored for neurodiverse adults. Since opening its doors in 2022, W5 LIFE has been committed to promoting inclusion, diversity, and lifelong learning for people of all ages across Northern Ireland. We focus on removing barriers to education, such as those experienced by the neurodiverse community. We were impressed by how this enthusiastic group of learners developed their skills over the three weeks of the programme.”