How it works

The OPT Award is a tool to support students aged 16+ with complex cognitive, medical, sensory, or physical needs in their transition to adulthood, embracing their personal development and emotional wellbeing.

It is aimed at the individual participating in activities they may have never encountered, providing them with enriching life experience and enabling positive risk taking, personal challenges, and a sense of community.

We’re excited to welcome you on this journey with us, and we’re sure you’ll agree there’s something for everyone to make the most of these valuable experiences.

The three strands of The OPT Award are; The Helping Strand, The Physical, Social & Emotional Wellbeing (PSWEB) Strand, and The 48 Hour Challenge.

We advise that each term focuses on a different strand, selecting an activity (or activities) and differentiating them to meet the needs of the individual or cohort of students participating.

You may choose a number of activities from the strand, ideally individuals should complete four to six OPT Award sessions each half term (you can decide the length of your sessions). The third term will focus entirely on the 48 Hour Challenge.

Students will receive sew on badges and certificates for the strands completed, and the school will also be award for its engagement, participation, and achievements.

Click on any of the buttons below to find out more about how The OPT Award works