Led by Occupational Therapist (OT) Kirstin Thornburrow, this group targets the real-world social and organisational challenges that come with the transition to secondary school. Each session blends social skills practice with practical executive functioning work, covering how to plan and prioritise, manage time and organise materials within a team setting. Rather than teaching these skills in isolation, they are woven into collaborative tasks that mirror the demands teens face at school. For example, a group might need to scope a project, collectively assign roles to each group member, and deliver a result within a set timeframe.
This group is suited to children moving into or already in secondary school who need support navigating peer relationships, group work, and the social demands of a more independent environment. It is open to any child who would benefit from a supported space to practise these skills, not diagnosis-specific.
Over five weeks, children develop greater confidence in social problem-solving, a better ability to plan and organise within group settings, and stronger cooperation skills. Parents receive practical strategies to reinforce these skills at home, along with a progress summary at the end of the programme.