Foundation Studies
Foundation Studies offers a range of entry-level and Level 1 Vocational courses that will help you work towards various qualifications. They will also develop your personal and social skills and prepare you for further training or employment.
We have patient and supportive staff who can help you with your study skills and give you extra support with English and Maths. You will study a range of Vocational subjects and take part in work experience placements to help you prepare for a job.
Supported Learning
The Foundation team will meet you at your interview. You will then be offered a tour of the department and the College. This will help you get to know the staff and the campus. You can also ask to return for a taster session before you start. This will help build your confidence.
Foundation class sizes are smaller than average. Meanwhile, learners are supported by Learning Support Assistants. Importantly, you will have a Personal Tutor to provide extra support. Your Personal Tutor will deliver a weekly tutorial programme, covering topics related to health and wellbeing.
You will have access to a supervised social space at break and lunch times. Plus, there will be support at the end of the day to help you get on the bus or meet your taxi.
Your EHCP outcomes will be embedded in your Study Programme. These will be reviewed with your local authority each year. This makes sure they are up-to-date and support your personal learning and progression goals.
The LINK Programme
If you are a Year 10 or Year 11 pupil and you are not sure what to do next, this short schools link course will help you.
The programme runs one morning a week in the Autumn Term and Spring Term. It is designed to give you a real-life experience of college. It will also help us understand whether college is right for you.
Importantly, you will be accompanied by support assistants from your current school. They will help you get to college from school.
You will have an interview for this programme. Then, after we get your EHCP and school references, we will consider your application.
Independence Hub
There are eight spaces available each year in our Independence Hub. This five-day-a-week offer will focus on the skills needed for young people with complex needs to achieve their learning goals and progression.
Inclusive and supported learning will develop skills for independent living, employment and good health. All learning will be delivered at our new Foundation and Independence Hub building. You will also access other areas of the College as appropriate.
Information and support
- All Foundation Studies classes are for students with learning differences and/or disabilities.
- In class you will be supported by your tutor and, if necessary, a Learning Support Assistant (LSA).
- There is a Foundation Studies social space that can be accessed at break time and lunch time, with LSAs on duty.
- More confident students will be encouraged to access other parts of the College.
- There will be an annual materials fee.
- To receive remission you must be on a means-tested benefit.
- If you are aged 16-18 you are entitled to free education.
- If you are 19-25 you will need to have a current Education, Health and Care Plan to access free education.
- You need to bring your EHCP (or draft assessment paperwork) to your interview.
- The College’s Skills Development Team will be available to provide specialist support to students with specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia and dyspraxia.
- The Travel Team can assist with travel enquiries. You may wish to apply for funding to assist with specialised travel. Please contact the county SEN Travel team for further information.
Visit us
If you’re interested in visiting our campuses, be sure to secure your spot on one of our upcoming Open Events or Parent & Guardian Tours.
Book your space now