The OPT Award

The OPT Award is a tool to support students with additional needs in their transition to adulthood and the future. These additional needs may be physical, emotional, social, cognitive, complex, medical, or a combination.

There are no exclusions on who can participate.

Students with additional needs, including complex and profound needs, may not have the same access to other accredited award schemes as those in a mainstream setting and The OPT Award creates a sense of community and achievement to students who take part. Students regarded as having ‘special needs’ are rarely recognised for their achievements and abilities, yet face extraordinary challenges in their daily lives, both physical and mental, yet they rarely complain. They set an example to us all.

Comprised of three strands to be undertaken over three terms, The OPT Award is designed by a teacher, for teachers, encouraging positive risk taking that can be easily integrated into current planning and delivery of EHCPs. The OPT Award itself is for students aged 16 and over, and younger students can participate in The Leapfrog Award in their build up to The OPT Award.

“The OPT Award has enabled us to offer an equivalent, appropriate qualification to Duke of Edinburgh for our students with complex learning needs. The award allows flexibility for students to explore subjects and areas they are interested in. Lynda and Cat have supported us throughout the process, making the running of the award very smooth. The assessment element was manageable and tied in closely to our existing assessments. We are looking forward to continuing to use The OPT Award!” - Northern Counties School