How Self Discovery Helped Shape Demi’s Future
Say hello to Demi Scott, a 24-year-old student from Newcastle who is using her own experiences of ADHD and autism to help others through a future career in psychology.
When I'm here I feel more alive
Thornbeck College prides itself on providing bespoke support to individuals by equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and behaviours for the next stage of their lives.
As part of these ongoing support opportunities, learners from the college can attend work experience placements at New Warlands Farm, the North East Autism Society’s 78-acre development in Country Durham.
Keiran, a 20-year-old from Newton Aycliffe, is one of several learners who have been developing key employability skills at the farm in preparation for adulthood.
In just over a year, Keiran’s confidence and skills have grown exponentially. Not only has he planted trees, erected fences, and herded sheep – he’s also found a place where he feels serene.
“When I’m here, I feel more alive,” says a reflective Keiran as he surveys the stunning County Durham landscape.
As part of his placement Keiran works closely alongside other learners with Farm Manager, Dave Wilde.
Keiran’s relationship with Dave is heartwarming to say the least. After working together for over a year, it’s understandable that their rapport is so harmonious.
From working side-by-side on the workbenches to hopping in the Polaris, one of the farm’s off-road utility vehicles, Keiran clearly admires Dave and works incredibly hard at any task thrown his way.
“Before I came here, I didn’t know how to do any fencing or anything,” proclaims Keiran. “I’ve learned a lot from Dave.”
And it’s not just practical skills he’s learned. Keiran also understands the importance of showing up every day come rain or shine.
“The weather doesn’t stop us,” Keiran proclaims proudly. “You just don’t know what it’s going to be like up here. We even work in the snow.”
Learning Support Assistant Ian Halford, who accompanies Keiran to the farm, believes that robust work ethic, along with the plethora of transferrable skills Keiran has acquired during his placement, will be crucial for future employment opportunities.
“It’s good life skills,” says Ian. “You can’t predict the weather and when they go into employment there’ll be days when it’s awful outside, but they still need to get the job done.”
Ian’s belief in Keiran is palpable. It’s clear he’s had a front row seat to watch him grow into the incredible individual standing before us today. An individual who has now cemented himself as part of NEAS history by helping plant our Sycamore Gap sapling. A moment of gravitas not lost on Ian.
“It’s such a big part of history,” continues Ian. “He should be really proud of himself for taking part in such an important and iconic event.”
As the morning rolls on, thick clouds paint the sky a mirky, bleak, and unsaturated grey. There’s nothing bleak about Keiran’s prospects, though. This is a young man going places.
A fact recognised and celebrated by Thornbeck College’s Principal, Fay Strong:
"The placement has increased Keiran’s confidence, independence, and understanding of workplace expectations."
“Through regular attendance and meaningful tasks, he has developed key employability skills, which will support his successful transition towards adult life and future employment opportunities.”
What’s abundantly clear is that Keiran is an impressive individual.
Not only has he has embraced the wonderful opportunities presented to him by the college, he’s done so in a diligent, proactive, and enthusiastic way.
He told us he ‘feels more alive’ when he is at the farm. The truth is, his presence brings that same spark of life to anyone lucky enough to work alongside him.
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