aBOUT US
LifeLit provides tailored programmes for young people with additional needs, empowering them to grow personally and professionally. Through personalised mentoring, interactive workshops, and ongoing support, we help each individual unlock their full potential and thrive in their future endeavors.
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VISION
Our Vision is to create a world where all young people, regardless of their challenges, have the opportunity to achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.
Meet The Team
Founder
Bradley Thorne founded LifeLit to bridge a gap he experienced firsthand: an education system that often struggles to meet the diverse needs of young people. His mission is to empower others to develop the confidence, resilience, and independence needed to navigate life successfully. Bradley’s own educational journey reflects the challenges faced by many. With poor school attendance due to a turbulent home life, he left secondary school with just one GCSE. A vivid memory of sitting his Maths and Science exams stands out—not as an opportunity, but as a moment of resignation, knowing he had no chance of success. In 2014, Bradley earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Film, Television, and Media Studies from Aberystwyth University, graduating with Upper Second-Class Honours (2:1). This achievement was particularly significant, as he had to independently develop the academic writing and research skills required to succeed at university. This achievement proved to him the transformative power of pursuing something you genuinely enjoy in a supportive setting. This experience directly aligns with Bradley's philosophy at LifeLit. He believes that every young person, including those with additional learning needs, has unique skills and purpose. The key is helping them identify and explore these strengths in a safe and nurturing environment. Initially aspiring to become a documentary filmmaker to amplify diverse and underrepresented voices, Bradley’s path evolved. During a year spent teaching English in Rio de Janeiro, he worked with both business professionals and young people in underdeveloped communities, witnessing stark disparities in education and opportunity. The systemic barriers that prevented many from attaining a decent standard of living became a catalyst for the creation of LifeLit. Combined with his later experiences in child safeguarding in Northern Ireland, Bradley was inspired to develop a programme that prioritises practical skills, personal growth, and real-world readiness, particularly for those with additional needs. Bradley explains: “Imagine a world where every young person, regardless of neurological or societal classification, had a trusted mentor—a friend with the life experience and resources to guide them in the right direction. Someone who truly listened, cared, and worked to create pathways to solutions, wellbeing, and fulfilment while understanding the obstacles and challenges they face. That vision is the essence of what I created LifeLit to provide.” Bradley deeply understands how past experiences and traumas can shape self-belief, especially for additional needs pupils who are often written off too early. His work focuses on nurturing that self-belief, ensuring every young person sees their value, regardless of the challenges they face. LifeLit’s mission, embodied in the formula Confidence + Resilience = Independence, is to give young people the tools to thrive. By partnering with schools, corporate sponsors, and communities, Bradley aims to ensure the programme reaches those who need it most. With LifeLit, Bradley is committed to helping young people discover their purpose, overcome obstacles, and build fulfilling futures.
Specialist Advisor for Education and Inclusion,
LifeLit Advisory Board Member
Andrea Getty is a transformative force in the field of additional needs education and a dedicated advocate for young people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As Head of the Autism Centre at Larne High School, Andrea has devoted her career to empowering young people with additional needs, ensuring they achieve their full potential in education and beyond. Andrea’s approach is rooted in her commitment to truly knowing the young people she works with—identifying their strengths, unlocking their capabilities, and tailoring their educational journeys. Her efforts have not only given hope and confidence to countless students but have also reversed the odds for those often written off by the system. Under her guidance, students have surpassed expectations, with some achieving outstanding academic success, including excelling in numeracy at a national level. Andrea’s philosophy extends beyond the classroom, embracing the entire family network of the young person. Recognising that parents and carers are often under immense pressure, she is committed to supporting families as a fundamental part of her work. Andrea believes that empowering the wider network of a young person is vital to their success, providing the necessary guidance, resources, and encouragement to parents and carers where needed. This holistic approach ensures that families feel supported and equipped to nurture their child’s development, creating a stronger foundation for the young person to thrive. A passionate advocate for accessibility and inclusion, Andrea has consistently challenged local and national authorities to improve systems and policies affecting learners with additional needs. Notably, she successfully lobbied the DVLA through her local MP to review its accessibility accommodations, leading to meaningful change for neurodivergent individuals—a testament to her drive to create a more equitable society. Andrea’s unwavering dedication to professional growth has kept her at the forefront of additional needs education. She is committed to staying informed on best practices, consistently reviewing and challenging outdated systems that fail to support learners effectively. Her work ensures that every child she supports has the tools, resources, and belief to succeed. As an integral member of LifeLit’s advisory board, Andrea brings unparalleled expertise and a passion for inclusive education. Her insights and advocacy are instrumental in shaping LifeLit’s mission to foster confidence, resilience, and independence in young people with additional needs.
Specialist Advisor for Inclusive Practice and Community Engagement,
LifeLit Advisory Board Member
Nichola is the Lead Facilitator for LifeLit’s school-based programme, bringing over a decade of experience in the VCSE sector to her role. Her background spans project development, strategic planning, one-to-one mentoring, family support, carer support group facilitation, volunteer inclusion and management, and delivering training for parents, young people, employers, and volunteers. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by both young people and their families, Nichola plays a central role in delivering LifeLit's sessions in schools across Northern Ireland. She is passionate about creating inclusive, engaging learning environments that help young people build confidence, develop essential life skills, and take meaningful steps toward independence. Driven by her own experience as a parent raising neurodiverse children, Nichola also specialises in providing emotional and practical support to parents and caregivers. She understands firsthand how transformative it can be for a young person when their caregiver is empowered with the right knowledge, tools, and support. This insight has become the foundation of her personal mission—to equip families and professionals alike with the understanding and resources needed to improve outcomes for young people with learning difficulties, disabilities, and neurodiverse conditions. Nichola is a firm advocate for autonomy and believes that every young person, regardless of ability, should have their voice heard and respected. She celebrates individuality and is committed to ensuring the support provided is both meaningful and personalised. Whether delivering sessions to young people, mentoring them individually, or guiding parents, Nichola brings compassion, energy, and a deep commitment to helping individuals thrive and reach their full potential.
Advisor for Neuro-Inclusive Learning and Development,
LifeLit Advisory Board Member
Remie Colledge is an inspiring advocate for neurodivergent wellbeing and a passionate champion for inclusive education. As LifeLit’s Advisor for Neuro-Inclusive Learning and Development, Remie draws on her wealth of lived experience, professional knowledge, and reflective practices to create impactful resources and strategies that empower young people with additional needs. Remie’s personal journey has been one of determination and self-discovery. After struggling in mainstream education and spending time in hospital education due to mental health challenges, she was later diagnosed as autistic at the age of 26. This turning point helped her make sense of her experiences and unlocked a deep understanding of her strengths, differences, and support needs. With this insight, Remie embarked on a mission to challenge societal norms and to help create a more inclusive world where neurodivergent individuals can thrive. Remie is currently leading the development of interactive video content for LifeLit, designed to help SEN learners navigate key life skills while celebrating their individuality. Her work aligns with LifeLit’s mission to build confidence, resilience, and independence in young people. Remie believes that every learner has unique strengths, and her approach focuses on helping individuals explore their potential in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment. Her contributions to LifeLit are grounded in her broader professional pursuits. As a freelance trainer, speaker, and writer, Remie collaborates with organisations and individuals to promote neuro-inclusivity in workplaces, education, and communities. Her training and resources are informed by her personal experiences and underpinned by a strong commitment to reflective practices and continuous growth. Through her advocacy, training, and content creation, Remie has become a trusted voice in the field of neurodivergent wellbeing. She believes in fostering environments where individuals feel empowered to communicate their needs and build fulfilling lives on their own terms. Remie’s ultimate goal is to contribute to a more inclusive world—one where neurodivergent individuals are fully supported and celebrated for their unique strengths and perspectives. Learn more about Remie’s work: https://remiecolledge.co.uk
Community Advisor for Neurodiversity,
LifeLit Advisory Board Member
Kadin McElwain brings invaluable insights and lived experience to the LifeLit Advisory Board as a passionate advocate for neurodiversity. Diagnosed with autism at the age of two, Kadin has turned personal challenges into opportunities for growth, becoming a beacon of resilience and inspiration. A four-time Dean’s List honouree at Kent State University, Kadin has excelled academically while navigating the complexities of life on the autism spectrum. His journey highlights the importance of tailored support, strong routines, and perseverance in achieving personal and professional goals. Beyond his academic accomplishments, Kadin is committed to raising awareness about the unique strengths and challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals. As part of the LifeLit team, Kadin offers a perspective grounded in personal experience, helping shape programmes that empower young people with special educational needs (SEN). He is particularly focused on promoting inclusion, fostering confidence, and encouraging individuals to embrace their uniqueness. Kadin’s contributions to LifeLit reflect his unwavering dedication to creating a more equitable world—one where every young person, regardless of their neurodiversity, can discover their potential and thrive.