Skills, Training & Qualifications
At Pathfinders Cymru, we believe every child and young person deserves the chance to build new skills, gain valuable qualifications, and take on exciting challenges — whatever their abilities or needs.
We’re passionate about creating supportive, inclusive opportunities for young people with learning disabilities and neurodivergent conditions to thrive, build confidence, and be celebrated for exactly who they are.
"To build a future where their happiness, inclusion,
and employment aspirations are valued and achieved."
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Below are some of the programmes and opportunities you can get involved with through Pathfinders Cymru:
AQA Unit Award Scheme (UAS)
The AQA Unit Award Scheme is a flexible, accessible way to gain recognition for your skills and achievements — no matter how big or small. It’s perfect for anyone of any age and ability.
Every time you complete a short unit, you’ll receive a certificate from AQA detailing exactly what you can do. It’s a brilliant way to boost confidence and create a clear, personal record of achievement.
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Wondering how to get involved?
We currently offer AQA Units to those attending our in-person sessions, but we’re also developing a range of resource packs to support distance learners. Contact Bethan, our Programme Coordinator, to find out what units are currently available and how to sign up.
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE)
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a fantastic way for young people to build confidence, independence, and teamwork skills.
Pathfinders Cymru offers inclusive, flexible DofE opportunities designed to support young people with learning disabilities and neurodivergent conditions to take part, overcome challenges, and celebrate their achievements.
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By working closely with Neath Port Talbot’s Duke of Edinburgh Area Co-ordinator, we’re helping young people who might otherwise struggle to access and complete the programme — whether due to disability, anxiety, or other barriers. Together, we break down obstacles and open up opportunities.
Young Enterprise
Enter the Dragon’s Den!
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Okay — nothing quite as scary as that. Young Enterprise gives young people the chance to set up and run their own business, with guidance from experienced mentors.
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We ensure our projects are accessible and inclusive, supporting children and young people with additional needs to develop teamwork, money management, and leadership skills in a positive, empowering environment. Amazing opportunity to add this wonderful qualification to your CV.
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When?
Starting in September, every Friday afternoon (3.30pm–5pm). And don’t worry about after-school hunger — we’ve got you covered, thanks to funding from the Tesco Community Fund!
Places are limited, so get in touch to secure your spot.
Neurodiversity Training:
Shifting Perspectives, Changing Practice
At Pathfinders Cymru, we believe neurodivergent people don’t need fixing — society needs to adapt.
Our training isn’t about forcing individuals to fit into systems that weren’t made for them. It’s about helping people make simple, meaningful changes that lead to real understanding, acceptance, and support for neurodivergent people to thrive as their true, authentic selves.
Firmly rooted in the social model of disability, we focus on breaking down barriers in environments, attitudes, and expectations — not changing the person but giving the environment, understanding and tools to learn, grow and thrive!
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Created by Educators, for Educators
(and Everyone Else Too)
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What makes us different is that our training is developed and delivered by experienced classroom educators — people who understand the impossible job teachers face in UK schools today. We get the realities of overstretched resources, rising expectations, and complex classrooms.
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This isn’t about perfect systems or abstract theory. It’s about small, practical, evidence-based changes that make a genuine difference — not just for each neurodivergent child, but for teachers, support staff, classmates, parents, carers, and whole communities.
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We don’t sell “quick fixes”. We give you a practical, sustainable toolkit to understand and support neurodivergent people in ways that are kind, realistic, and effective.
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