Meet the team – Melanie Baggaley, lead for the independent living thematic pathway 

ASDAN’s mission is to engage, elevate and empower learners with diverse needs. We’re constantly seeking ways to better achieve this mission, and our most recent development has been the introduction of thematic support for member guidance, structured by curriculum themes. This ensures that all members receive expert support based on the needs of their learners, rather than the location of their centre.  

Our thematic support is divided into two pathways, each tailored to provide focused assistance within specific areas of learning: independent living and personal effectiveness.  

Leading the independent living pathway is Senior Relationship Manager, Melanie Baggaley, whose experience and passion for learner-led education make her an ideal fit for this role. We spoke to Melanie to find out more about her journey with ASDAN and her vision for this new approach.    

Experience in SEND education 

Melanie’s ASDAN journey began in the classroom, where she first practiced ASDAN’s pedagogy. Reflecting on her initial connection with ASDAN, she shared: 

“Before joining ASDAN, I spent over 13 years working at a residential school for children and young people with autism, learning disabilities, and complex needs. During my time there, various ASDAN courses were incorporated throughout school and integrated within the residential setting to foster the development of independence.” 

“While working there, I became the ASDAN coordinator for the organisation and was fondly known as “ASDAN Mel” by my colleagues and the learners I supported. It was in this role I observed firsthand how ASDAN courses supported the learners to engage in education, supporting their individual targets and goals.” 

“With my experience in SEND education and as an ASDAN Relationship Manager, I have developed a strong understanding of what learners and educators need to succeed in independent living.” 

“My ability to build partnerships with members and help support them to build engaging learning experiences and high-quality programmes of delivery, enables me to effectively lead this pathway and drive positive outcomes for learners.” 

Passion to support the transition to adulthood 

Ranging from pre-Entry Level to Level 2, ASDAN’s qualifications and programmes within the independent living pathway include Personal and Social Development, Employability, Personal Progress, My Independence, Lifeskills Challenge and our latest course for care leavers – Moving On.  

When asked what inspired her to take on the role of pathway lead, Melanie explained:    

“The courses within this pathway are very close to my heart, and I have seen them make such a positive influence on the learners’ lives I supported. I was inspired by the opportunity to take on this impactful role within ASDAN and help lead the team to amplify the voice of learners with SEND. I want to ensure that we make a meaningful impact on learners’ futures by equipping them with essential skills for success.” 

“ASDAN’s commitment to providing accessible and engaging learning experiences aligns with my passion for empowering individuals to reach their full potential.” 

Skills at the heart of ASDAN’s independent living pathway 

Melanie outlines the four key skills she believes learners can expect to build through ASDAN’s courses within the living independently pathway: 

Communication and wellbeing skills 

“Through interactive activities incorporating some group work, learners will be supported to enhance their verbal and non-verbal communication, which will help them express themselves more effectively in different environments. The development of the skills will encourage learners to look at the different dimensions of health and what that means to each individual.”  

Social skills  

“Learners will develop the ability to interact and collaborate with others, improving positive relationships and teamwork abilities in social environments.”  

Independent living skills  

“Learners will gain confidence in managing daily tasks, such as personal care, engaging with their environment and building a healthy lifestyle – all which are essential for living independently.”  

Workplace skills 

“Learners will develop their awareness of time management, learning through work experience, working with others, and ensuring that they understand their rights and responsibilities in the workplace.”  

Practical learning to develop self-esteem for future success 

ASDAN courses aim to empower those who are disengaged from education or unable to access a learning journey suited to their needs and abilities. Melanie shared the importance to ASDAN’s skills-based approach: 

“For many learners within SEND, ASDAN courses provide critical preparation for adulthood, ensuring goals and aspirations are well planned for.”  

“The independent living pathway will help provide learners with the tools to enhance their confidence, resilience and ability to collaborate effectively with others, by working on individual learner needs and personal targets. All of this supports learners into preparing them for independent living and the transition into adulthood.” 

Staying relevant and informed in education  

ASDAN prides itself on staying ahead and being innovative within the education landscape. The thematic pathways are designed with the future in mind, ensuring learners are equipped with the skills they need to meet evolving demands.  

Melanie highlighted how ASDAN’s curriculum is structured around real-life contexts: 

"I am continuously updating myself on industry trends, government changes, educator feedback and learner needs. By staying engaged with stakeholders and incorporating real life examples of delivery, we ensure that any updates on content remain practical, engaging, and aligned with current expectations in education.” 

“It is important to foster inclusivity within ASDAN courses, as independent living encompasses a broad range of abilities and backgrounds. This ensures ASDAN courses are adaptable and flexible for all learners.”   

“In the ever-changing landscape of SEND, ASDAN’s courses will help equip learners with the necessary skills to navigate adulthood successfully and lead fulfilling, independent lives.” 

Empowering learners to thrive in independence 

Melanie summarises the importance of the skills within this pathway in shaping learners’ future success: 

“By focusing on the development of essential life and employability skills, this pathway equips learners with a strong foundation for future success.”  

“Whether they pursue higher education, enter the workforce, or become involved in their wider communities, they will have the confidence and experiences to adapt, grow, and thrive in their chosen paths, reaching for their aspirations.”    

Find out more about our thematic pathways and get in touch via our expression of interest form. An ASDAN expert from our relationship management team will get back to you soon. To learn more about the personal effectiveness pathway, read our interview with pathway lead Kerrie King.