Life Lab
Future Makers
COMING AUTUMN 2026
Havenswood Life Lab – Future Makers is a 12 week, strengths-based preparation for work & adulthood programme. It’s designed for neurodivergent young people aged 15–19 who are academically capable but at risk of poor post-16 outcomes due to anxiety, unmet SEND needs, school avoidance or lack of appropriate support.
The programme responds directly to the growing gap between education and adulthood for neurodivergent teenagers and aligns with the government’s “Youth Matters” national youth strategy. Many young people exit their teens without the practical skills, confidence, self-advocacy tools or supported experiences needed to move successfully into further education, employment, apprenticeship or independent living. This often leads to isolation, mental health decline, and long-term economic inactivity. This problem is exacerbated within the SEND community.
Havenswood Life Lab will provide a structured, small-group programme delivered in a calm, sensory-aware environment. Over 12 weeks, participants will develop practical life skills, money confidence, employment readiness, self-advocacy, emotional regulation strategies and community navigation skills. The programme will combine real-world practice (e.g. budgeting, cooking, travel training, mock interviews) with identity-affirming work that helps young people understand their strengths, needs and rights.
The model is relational and neurodivergent affirming. Sessions are capped at 8 participants to ensure safety, a comfortable environment for SEND teens and individual attention. Each young person will create a personalised “Next Chapter Plan” outlining realistic steps for the following 6–18 months, alongside identified supports and adjustments.