Overview
Macademia’s Young Professionals Academy gives children and young people the opportunity to explore future careers through practical, engaging and age-appropriate activities.
Rather than simply learning about a profession, learners take part in realistic projects and challenges inspired by the work people do within different industries. Programmes may include architecture, engineering, medicine and healthcare, law and criminology, business and marketing, design and other professional pathways.
Sessions are delivered by experienced tutors in supportive small groups, allowing learners to ask questions, develop their ideas and receive individual encouragement. The programme supports confidence, communication, teamwork, problem-solving, creativity and preparation for future education and employment.
Subjects and age requirements vary between programmes. No previous experience is required.
We welcome many neurodivergent learners and young people with SEND who can participate safely within a small-group environment. Macademia is an inclusive education provider rather than a specialist SEND setting, and we are unable to provide one-to-one or personal care support. Parents and carers are encouraged to contact us before booking to discuss their child’s needs.
Times and availability
Young Professionals Academy sessions usually run after school, during evenings and at weekends. Some programmes are delivered in six-week blocks, while others may be available as individual workshops.
Subjects, age ranges, dates and locations vary throughout the year. Advance booking is required. Please view our current timetable online or contact us for availability.
Contact
Please contact us for more information about current Young Professionals Academy programmes, age requirements, availability or booking.
Parents and carers are also welcome to contact us before booking to discuss their child’s individual needs and whether we can provide the appropriate level of support.
Costs
Sessions generally cost £12 per hour, although prices may vary for specialist workshops or longer programmes.
The full cost will be displayed before booking. Standard materials and equipment are included unless otherwise stated.
Inclusion
Supporting
- Autism
- Children's Disability
- Communication and Interaction Needs
- Global Development Delay
- Learning Disability / Difficulties
- Mental Health Issues
- Social, Emotional and Mental Health Needs
Cultural provisions
Macademia welcomes children and young people from all cultural, religious and ethnic backgrounds.
Families are encouraged to tell us in advance about any cultural or religious requirements, including dietary needs, clothing, religious observance or communication preferences. We will make reasonable arrangements wherever possible.
Our programmes are inclusive and are not affiliated with any particular faith or religion.
Dietary needs
Children should bring their own packed lunch, drinks and snacks.
Parents and carers must inform us before attendance of any allergies or medical dietary requirements so that these can be recorded and considered when planning activities.
Special needs (children)
SEND Local Offer
Macademia regularly welcomes neurodivergent children and young people, including learners with autism, ADHD, communication needs and other SEND.
Our small-group approach, clear session structure and practical activities can support children who may find larger or more formal settings challenging. We can make reasonable adjustments where possible and encourage families to share relevant information before attending.
Macademia is an inclusive education provider rather than a specialist SEND setting. We cannot provide continuous one-to-one support, personal care, complex medical support or manage high-risk behaviour. Our current premises do not have wheelchair access.
Parents and carers must contact us before booking if their child has additional support needs so that we can discuss suitability, reasonable adjustments and how the child can be supported safely.