What will my first week look like?
When you arrive, it might be your first visit to Pioneer TEC, maybe you’re here to see what we’re all about. Whatever the reason, you’ll be made to feel welcome and as if you’re part of TEC Life already – we’re accepting of everyone, regardless of the reason why you’re here or for how long.
The Head Teacher or Lead Teacher will welcome you, give you a full guided tour, and introduce you to the team on the day. You’ll get to see the whole site, the school, workshops and classrooms, take a sneak peek at the activities you might be taking part in, and get acquainted with other students.
Staff will take the lead on your well-being and safety, but every single staff member is here to help you settle and ensure you make the most of the opportunities available at Pioneer TEC.
Our staff team will:
Talk to you at the end of the day to find out how you got on and make sure you have what you need
Ensure the team is doing what we have said we will do
Offer support, particularly if you’re finding things strange – which is very common
Your first week is certainly full on – in a good way! You’ll completely immerse yourself in TEC Life, working through team building and group activities, getting to know other students who you might end up training, working, and socialising with.
You’ll be introduced to the staff and get a taste of what activities and courses we have to offer, as well as focusing on your own individual needs and seeing how these fit into TEC Life.
Your introductory session is more than just telling you what to do and what not to do – it’s about talking through your options, letting you get a feel for the place, and opening your eyes to TEC Life and the opportunities on offer.
What will the daily routine be like?
Having a daily routine is important for you, the staff and the other students. It provides a sense of structure, which ensures you’re aware of what’s happening each day. When you come to Pioneer TEC, your daily routine may look something like this:
School starts with morning Registration 09:00-09:15 and if you need a healthy breakfast and a drink we’ll welcome you with these too.
09:15-09:30 My Communication. (Welcome you and have a drink and a chat)
The first session will start 09:30 – 10:15 this will be a classroom or workshop session
10:15-11:00 The second classroom or workshop session
11:00-11:15 Break, time to chill out, get a drink and relax
11:15-12:00 The third session either in the workshop or classroom
12:00-12:45 Lunch
12:45-13:15 Fourth classroom/creative/workshop lesson
13:15-15:15 My Play & Leisure, My Physical Wellbeing activities
Days finish at 15:15 (unless we do an exciting off-site visit)
Off-site activities
If you are engaging positively at PioneerTEC there will be opportunities to take part in exciting visits to our Narrow Boat, the JetSki Lake, Trials Riding, Mountain Biking, Mountain Walking, Paddlesports on sea, canal, lakes and rivers and more!
What to wear
For our activities we’ll provide all the safety gear from helmets to buoyancy aids! For your classroom lessons you will need to dress in smart casual clothing. For workshop & creative sessions we’ll provide overalls. For some sessions safety boots are needed, we’ll size you up and get you your own pair as quickly as we can!
We want you to feel part of the school community, it is also important as part of our Independent Living Skills Programme, that you learn to take pride in yourself, your appearance and the clothing you wear.
We want our students to:
Succeed in education
Knowledge and learning can equip young people for life, regardless of the subject. We’re focused on ensuring our students succeed.
Be happy and healthy
The most important achievement for our students is to be happy and healthy. We equip them with the tools they need to become this.
Build good relationships
Learning the skills to build healthy and strong relationships help our students to grow as individuals and become well-rounded adults.
Have a safe place to stay
Have a safe place to stay - Feeling safe and secure is crucial for many of the young people that walk through our doors. The stability & structure of TEC Life enables them to feel this.
