ABSTRACT
Teaching and learning approaches are different with secondary staff taking a more subject focused approach to learning. Transition is happening to the young person at a time when they are beginning puberty, when they are learning to adapt to the changes in their own bodies and emotions as well as developing an increased awareness of their sexuality. It is important that the Survival Skills Programme is not viewed in isolation where young people are given a course of ‘treatment’ and returned to the classroom ‘cured’ but as part of the whole-school ethos. By using the programme it is hoped that the pupils will develop better emotional health as they will be acquiring and using the skills of empathy and understanding. The programme offers pupils a chance to build and reinforce their social skills with regard to interaction and communication.
