A DORSET-based education provider for people with SEND and profound and multiple learning disabilities has expanded to help more people gain skills for independence.

Employ My Ability (EMA) said it has “transformed” its Gillingham campus over the past year, unveiling a host of new facilities and upgrades designed to help young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD).

Since October 2024, the site has been fully dedicated to supporting students, with new purpose-built areas for learning, life skills and wellbeing all aimed at helping learners prepare for adulthood “in a supportive and inclusive environment”.

The developments have also created new jobs in the Gillingham area, the company said.

Among improvements is the addition of an Independent Living Suite – a fully-equipped kitchen, bedroom,
and bathroom area designed to mirror the environment students may find at home, where they can practice everyday tasks such as cooking, laundry, and personal care. Everything from making a hot drink, to changing bed sheets.

“Having this brand-new space devoted to everyday activities is really taking the support we’re able to
provide to the next level,” said Lisa-Marie Mackenzie, deputy head of education.

“It’s our goal to help students reach their independence potential so they can leave EMA with a solid foundation for adulthood.”

The former café has also been turned into a Hospitality Training Space, where students gain hands-on experience running pop-up cafés and community lunches for staff and visitors.

“The pop-up cafés are such an integral part of the week at EMA,” said Natalie Dix, tutor. “It’s a multi-faceted way for the young people to develop their skills while maintaining the community feeling where everyone is welcome.”

Outdoors, fitness and sensory spaces have been added, as well as a brand-new multi-use games area (MUGA), featuring a basketball court, nest swing, and exercise equipment.

“I specialised in sport before I joined EMA, with training and teaching experience in the field, so for
us to implement a space like this is something that resonates immensely with me,” said James Dunham, head of education.

“It’s a fantastic addition that promotes physical wellbeing for everyone.”

In addition, new Sensory, Hygiene and Learning Pods provide quiet, accessible spaces for personal care, and one-to-one learning.

EMA said the developments had created jobs in specialist areas and support roles.
Looking ahead, the firm said it is planning further additions, including a sensory garden with a water feature and vegetable patch, as well as a new classroom block.

It is now encouraging families, carers, and professionals to visit the campus for tours and taster sessions available throughout the year.

For more information, or to arrange a visit, contact Employ My Ability – Gillingham Campus on 01929 405685, email office@employmyability.org.uk, or visit employmyability.org.uk.