DIY
Learn practical skills you can use at home and in the workplace.
Positive Futures Alternative Provision
Who We Are
We are an AQA-accredited centre providing high-quality alternative provision for young people in Oldham and Rochdale. We understand that mainstream school isn’t the right fit for everyone, which is why we work closely with schools to identify students at risk of disengaging.
Our flexible, blended approach supports students with the aim of reintegrating them back into school life. Additionally, we support Year 11 students who are ready for the world of work, by placing them in meaningful, long-term work placements to help build confidence, experience, and brighter futures.
How we work
Our Approach
Our passionate team deliver hands-on, practical sessions in small groups, helping young people build life skills, confidence, and self-esteem. All students work towards and receive AQA Unit Awards upon completion of their sessions. Students are also given the opportunity to complete mock interviews, work readiness and customer service training.
Hair and Nails
Explore the beauty industry with hands-on, creative sessions.
Bricklaying
Get a feel for the construction trade with real, practical experience.
Art & Design
Express yourself and build a creative portfolio.
Testimonials
What our pupils have to say
❝ Thank you for everything you have done this term to support our pupils, it has been immensely successful, and they are really enjoying it ❞
❝ I have to say that his experience at Positive steps has been one of the best he has had, and it’s been a pleasure sharing that with him. ❞
Our Sessions
Designed to Spark Interest
Each session is designed to spark interest, encourage creativity, and equip young people with real-world skills they can carry forward into their future.
Attendance is monitored and fed back to schools by the start of sessions both morning and afternoon. We will also contact any students who do not attend and update schools.
How it works
For Schools
Every student begins their journey with a My Future Assessment, which is a holistic, comprehensive tool completed at three key points: on entry, midway, and at the end of the placement. This allows us to track progress, highlight strengths, and identify where further support may be needed.
Assessment outcomes are shared with schools to ensure that Positive Futures and the School are working together, to ensure each student has the best possible opportunity to reach their full potential. We welcome schools to visit students during their time with us, reinforcing the message that we are working together to support their success.
With access to a wide range of services across Positive Steps, were able to tailor support around each student’s individual needs and offer each student the chance to attend a careers advisor meeting, ensuring a truly child-centred approach.
Referrals are accepted from schools only.
Fundraising / Donations
As a charity, we rely greatly on donations and fundraising to provide Young Carers in Oldham with a break from their caring responsibilities to reduce social isolation, increase positive mental health and physical well-being.
We are incredibly grateful for the donations received, which allow us to continue to provide much needed support to the Young Carers in Oldham.
