Skills Training
Building skills for confidence and independence.
Orchardville’s Skills Training programmes empower people with learning disabilities and autism to develop practical life skills, prepare for employment, and grow in confidence. With support from the Motability Foundation, we also deliver Travelling with Confidence alongside a wide range of accredited and non-accredited training opportunities.
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Orchardville Skills Training
At Orchardville, we believe that learning new skills builds confidence, independence, and opportunities for the future. Our Skills Training programmes are designed to support people with learning disabilities and autism to develop practical life skills, prepare for employment, and grow in confidence.
Thanks to funding from the Motability Foundation, we’re proud to deliver our Travelling with Confidence programme, alongside a wide range of other accredited and non-accredited training options.
Practical Learning
Skills Training for Work and Life
Our Skills Tutors deliver a wide range of OCN-accredited and non-accredited training in a supportive and flexible environment, from Entry Level 3 to Level 2. Training is provided in small groups and combines both classroom-based and practical activities.
Courses aimed at helping you on your journey towards employment include:
- Exploring Employment Opportunities
- Appropriate Workplace Behaviour
- Teamwork
- Personal Presentation at Work
- Interview Skills
We also provide practical support such as writing a CV, searching for jobs, and completing application forms. Some participants also take part in vocational courses such as Barista Training, Customer Service, Business Administration and Hospitality.
Courses to build confidence and independence include:
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Managing a Personal Budget
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Time Management
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Communication Skills
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Scamwise
- Healthy Lifestyles
Build Skills
Travelling with Confidence
This programme helps individuals build the skills they need to travel safely — whether with family or independently.
We offer three tailored options:
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Travel Safety Awareness
Delivered in local special schools and Orchardville community groups, this non-accredited training is suitable for all. It covers everyday essentials such as pedestrian safety, the Green Cross Code, choosing safe routes, and travelling on public transport. -
OCN Level 1 Safe Independent Travel
This accredited course helps learners plan and complete journeys on their own. Training includes reading timetables, using Google Maps, buying tickets, and knowing what to do when things don’t go to plan. -
1:1 Travel Training
Delivered on an individual basis, this support helps participants learn a specific route that’s important to them — such as travelling to college, work, or a community activity. Intensive support is provided at the start, then gradually reduced as confidence grows.
“I always worried about buying my own ticket but after lots of practice I feel confident now.” – Shelley, OCN Level 1 Safe Independent Travel
Get Involved
If you’re interested in developing your skills through Orchardville, speak with your Employment Officer or contact Louise Cooper via email at louise.cooper@orchardville.com.
Upcoming Events
Every Thursday from 7pm
Social Club Belfast
Join us on Thursday nights from 7pm to take part in our Belfast Social Club.
Every other Thursday from 6pm
Social Club Lisburn
Join us on alternative Thursday nights from 6pm to take part in our Lisburn Social Club.
Every other Thursday from 6pm
Social Club Bangor
Join us on alternative Thursday nights from 6pm to take part in our Bangor Social Club.
Donate to Orchardville
Your generosity fuels our mission at Orchardville, where every donation helps transforms lives in the community. By contributing, you’re not just supporting a charity – you’re making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals who need it most.
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