Independent Living Skills Academy – Southend Adult Community College

Our Mission:

We don’t just educate – we empower learners to thrive with confidence, purpose and independence.

The Independent Living Skills Academy (ILSA) is Southend Adult Community College’s specialist provision for young people aged 16–25 with profound and complex learning needs. We provide a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment where learners build essential life skills, develop confidence, and grow towards greater independence. Our personalised programmes support every learner to progress at their own pace, preparing them for adulthood and a more independent future.

From developing communication and social interaction to building practical skills like cooking, travel training, and managing money, our personalised ILSA programmes support learners to thrive in everyday life.

Each pathway is designed around the individual, with small group teaching, one-to-one support, and a focus on personal development. We help young people with profound and complex needs to build independence, confidence, and meaningful skills for adulthood.

We Equip Our Learners For:

At ILSA, we focus on giving every young person the tools they need for a brighter future. Our tailored programmes help learners with SEND grow in confidence, build everyday life skills, and take steps towards independence — whether that’s further education, supported work, joining in with the community, or simply living a happy, healthy life.

Our Holistic Curriculum: A Four Pillar Approach

Core Skills

Exploring The World of Work

Health and Wellbeing

Developing Independence

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Whether you’re building everyday life skills or working towards greater independence, ILSA offers personalised programmes for SEN learners designed to support your journey.