Foundation Studies – Pathway to Further Education

Level: Entry Level 3 – Level 1 | Duration: 1-2 Years | Start Date: September 

What is this course about?
This programme of study is focused on preparing you for progression to mainstream provision. This course will provide you the opportunity to develop a range of vocational skills and maths and English qualifications to progress to the next level of study in the vocational area of your choice. You will be provided with a practical, engaging and enjoyable programme of learning.

Why choose this course?
This course is a hybrid programme giving you the opportunity to study in Foundation Studies while taking some classes in the mainstream provision at Kingsway or Cronton. This programme provides you with a broad range of practical and vocationally relevant activities which will help you to develop the skills needed to progress to the next level of study in that subject. You will have the opportunity to follow a flexible course to suit your needs and where appropriate, students will be able to achieve nationally recognised qualifications. All students will develop at different rates and targets will be set according to the stage the individual student is at and will build on previous skills acquired.

During this course you will:

• Develop a range of vocationally relevant work skills
• Have an opportunity to apply learning in a practical, creative and imaginative way
• Gain confidence by developing independent learning and vocational skills
• Increase your independence and social interaction skills
• Prepare for your progression to mainstream provision

 What will I learn on this course?
There are currently 6 vocational pathways to choose from:

• Construction Trades
• Hair and Beauty
• Health & Social Care and Early Years
• Hospitality and Catering
• IT and Business
• Sport and Public Services

The areas you will study also include Personal and Social Development, Maths, English, and throughout the programme there will be opportunities to develop work experience skills and enhance your physical and mental wellbeing. A tutorial programme is also embedded within your timetable to support you in your studies and pastorally.

Entry requirements
Minimum of entry level 2 in maths and English. No formal vocational qualifications are required. A transition programme will be put in place so that you are able to experience the college environment and we can assess your suitability for our programme.

What will this course lead on to?
On successful completion of this programme you will be ready to progress to mainstream qualifications at level 1 subject to internal references and interview. Some students may progress to the Pathway to Employment.

How will I be assessed?
Your teachers and support staff will continually observe and review your progress, as soon as targets are achieved, new ones will be set so that you continue to develop and build on previous learning. Formal continuous practical assessments will be used to assess your competence in the vocational subjects. Examinations will be used for English and maths qualifications.

Enrichment opportunities
Throughout your programme you will have opportunities to engage with a range of sport and community based activities. There will also be a variety of trips and visits and regular guest speakers.

Are there any costs associated with the course?
Students are expected to be organised and arrive at class with basic file, paper and stationery. Trips and visits may incur additional costs depending on destination; however, affordability is a key factor in decision making.

Some vocational areas may specify that work based PPE is required. Some students may be eligible for financial support to buy this equipment.

Facilities:
All lessons take place in fully equipped classrooms or work based environments such as workshops, salons, kitchens etc as appropriate to the vocational area. Students can access course materials electronically from home.

What Foundation Studies students at Riverside College say…
“This course has helped me to prepare to go onto a mainstream vocational course. I was able to get to know my tutors for next year and I had a good idea of what to expect when I started my new course.”