Thursday 16 July saw Transition2 learners, staff, parents / carers, employers and stakeholders come together at Friar Gate Studios to celebrate the end of another fantastic year at Transition2. The afternoon was filled with celebration, laughter and reflection. Guests enjoyed a football-themed introduction, inspiring speeches from our guest speakers and learners, delicious cakes and savouries, and a fun photo booth that captured some wonderful memories of the day.
More importantly, the event was full of stories that reflected what Transition2 is all about. Stories of growing independence, rising ambition, job success, resilience in the face of challenges, and the friendships and connections that have flourished throughout the year. It was a wonderful reminder that success is measured not only by qualifications and destinations, but by confidence, belonging and the courage to embrace new opportunities.
To round off the celebrations, Transition2 staff and learners enjoyed an age-appropriate celebratory drink together in Derby city centre afterwards – the first time we have ever marked the end of the year in this way. It was relaxed, enjoyable and another important opportunity for learners to experience life as young adults alongside their peers.
“The greatest success wasn’t what happened during the celebration. It was what
happened the next morning.”
The following morning, we discovered that several learners had independently arranged to meet one another in Derby city centre. For many young adults with SEND, this is a significant milestone. Too often, opportunities to socialise independently can be limited, with life centred around education and home. Seeing our learners buy a drink in a pub, choose to meet up with friends, spend time together and build lives beyond the classroom and family home is exactly what Preparing for Adulthood is all about. Those moments represent confidence, trust, friendship and belonging. They are the outcomes that matter and a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.
As we reflect on everything we’ve achieved together this year, we’d like to say a heartfelt thank you to every learner, parent, carer, colleague, employer and partner who has supported Transition2 throughout the year. Your encouragement, commitment and belief in our young people help make everything we do possible. At Transition2, we don’t simply prepare young adults for work. We prepare them for adulthood – and sometimes the greatest achievements are found in the moments that happen after the programme has finished.
We wish everyone a safe, relaxing and well-earned summer break, and we look forward to working with returning learners and new learners in September for another exciting year of opportunities, growth and success.
