Sophie’s story

Sophie’s journey with National Star

Sophie is thriving on National Star’s Work Outcomes and Personal Development pathway. Through community inclusion, work placements, physical and mental health support, Sophie is gaining the skills and confidence she needs to live independently. Allowing her to pursue a future full of possibilities and employment.   

Sophie is a natural people person, known for her warm personality and determination. She has lived in Cheltenham since birth and knows the area well. She currently lives at home with her mum, dad, and two beloved cats, Poppy and Ruby. As she looks to the future, Sophie is excited about the prospect of moving away from home into supported living. Allowing her to have independence but still be close enough to visit her family on weekends. She’s looking forward to the new chapter with optimism and pride.  

A passion for hospitality  

Sophie takes great pride in her work and is passionate about developing her skills in hospitality. She works across several college enterprises, including StarBistro, StarPrint and StarMart. Occasionally supporting reception has helped her to develop her communication skills, which has led to her gaining the confidence to complete a placement at a local coffee shop. 

On Wednesdays Sophie’s timetable allows her to focus on her learning outcome to ‘communicate effectively in social and work environments’, while working in StarBistro. Here she uses the till, applies her literacy skills through reading menus, taking orders and understanding shift patterns. To ensure this placement mirrors life after college, she works from 10am until 1pm, with a short break. It’s a busy environment, and Sophie thrives on the energy and pace. Sophie shared: ‘I like serving customers and making food. I really enjoy helping in the kitchen’. Sophie’s dedication and enthusiasm are clear, and her confidence continues to grow with every shift.  

At the Kings Coffee House, Sophie helps to serve customers, prepare milkshakes, and make hot drinks. Soon, she’ll be trained to use the till, a responsibility and skill she’s looking forward to gaining. She especially enjoys the rush around 3pm, when nearby schools finish and the place fills with people. ‘It’s very busy, but I enjoy it!’ she shared with a smile. This placement offers a combination of familiar people (colleagues) and unfamiliar people (customers) enabling Sophie to develop her communication skills.   

Community access and growing confidence  

A key part of Sophie’s therapy and development involves community access with her Occupational Therapist. Weekly visits to a coffee shop have become an important routine. Through these trips, Sophie has learnt how to confidently pay by card and cash, and how to handle real-world situations that involve communicating with unfamiliar people.  

If Sophie ever feels unsure or doesn’t understand a question, she now feels confident to ask them to rephrase or explain, ensuring she still leads the conversation in a way that works for her. To support Sophie with these interactions she wears a lanyard that says “I have a hidden disability. Please be patient.” This simple tool has had a big impact. People are more understanding and respectful, helping Sophie to feel more confident and empowered in public spaces.  

Doing what she loves  

Outside college, Sophie is a keen rugby player and loves horse riding. Recently, Sophie competed in a riding competition and won! Her achievements outside the classroom are a big part of her identity and personal pride. While out on a community trip she proudly shared photos of the competition with her classmates, ensuring everyone was involved in the conversation.   

She also works occasionally at Tewkesbury Abbey, helping when an extra pair of hands is needed. Whether it’s on horseback, at a rugby match, or serving customers in a busy café, Sophie puts her heart and soul into everything she does.  

Looking ahead  

Sophie is already showing what is possible when passion, purpose, and support come together. She’s actively exploring supported living options in Cheltenham, hoping to move somewhere close to the shops so she can run her own errands and build even more independence.  

Sophie is excited to continue learning, growing, and doing what she loves. Whether she’s working in the Bistro, helping at the coffee shop, or training to take on new responsibilities, Sophie is building a future that reflects her talents and her dreams.  

Sophie’s journey is one of independence, connection, and ambition.  Through a combination of real-world experience, targeted therapies, and supportive relationships, Sophie is gaining the confidence to communicate, pursuing meaningful work, and preparing for a life full of choice and independence. With her warm heart, strong work ethic, and unstoppable energy, there’s no doubt Sophie will continue to shine.