The Greater Manchester Learning Provider Network (GMLPN) is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Higher Health UK to support the coordination and expansion of the Skills4Living Programme, a groundbreaking initiative designed to equip young people with essential life, wellbeing, and employability skills.
Higher Health, a UNESCO-partnered non-profit organisation originally founded in South Africa, has successfully supported over one million students globally. Now, with the UK as a key growth area, Higher Health is growing its proven model in Greater Manchester, with GMLPN playing a pivotal role in regional coordination and delivery.
“Young people are growing up in a world of rapid change. Skills4Living places wellbeing and resilience at the heart of education, giving learners the tools to protect their health and shape their futures,” said Professor Ramneek Ahluwalia, Chief Executive of Higher Health. “From our roots in South Africa to this growing movement in Greater Manchester, our mission is to help the next generation thrive as confident contributors to their communities and the wider world.”
At its core, Skills4Living develops empathy, conflict resolution, active listening and adaptability. These skills are embedded across a ten-module curriculum and peer-to-peer network covering areas often overlooked in traditional education, including:
- Mental health and wellbeing
- Digital and cyber safety
- Gender equality and inclusion
- Financial literacy and future planning
- Climate action and green careers
- Community building and citizenship
Earlier this year, Higher Health launched a successful pilot in Greater Manchester, supported by the GMCA and Mayor Andy Burnham. The pilot reached over 1,000 students across 11 institutions, including the The University of Manchester, Trafford & Stockport College Group, Rochdale Training, University of Salford, Manchester Metropolitan University, and other leading FE colleges and apprenticeship providers. Feedback from learners and educators highlighted the programme’s accessible, engaging, and practical approach.
Building on this momentum, the programme aims to reach 5,000 – 10,000 learners across Greater Manchester in the 2025–26 academic year. Upcoming milestones also include formal Level 2 accreditation and integration into the MBacc, further embedding essential life skills into mainstream education.
GMLPN is a well-established network of over 150 Independent Training Providers, FE colleges, Community Providers, Universities, and stakeholders committed to improving the quality and impact of education and skills provision across Greater Manchester. The partnership with Higher Health UK aligns directly with GMLPN’s mission to support inclusive, learner-centred programmes that prepare young people for the realities of modern life and work.
Charlotte Jones, Head of Operations at GMLPN, commented:
“We are thrilled to be partnering with Higher Health UK to support this innovative and impactful programme across Greater Manchester. The Skills4Living curriculum aligns perfectly with our mission to support learners in developing the confidence, resilience, and skills they need to thrive in life and work.”
The programme’s interactive, peer-led approach encourages learners to reflect, engage, and take action in their communities, fostering not only personal growth but also civic responsibility and social cohesion. For more information about Skills4Living or to explore partnership opportunities, please contact Higher Health UK at hello@higherhealth.org.uk, or GMLPN at info@gmlpn.co.uk .
