The Foundation Studies department provides further education for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities, autistic spectrum disorders and behavioural problems, who are aged between 16 – 25 years. The course is designed to provide a personalised learning programme.
Courses available in Foundation Studies
| Course Title | Duration |
| Preparing for Life and Work | 1 – 3 Years |
What does the programme include?
The course is taught through projects, which provide a theme for work over a number of weeks. Projects are designed to combine activities and skills from all areas of the curriculum and provide opportunities for students who are working at different levels to work together.
There is an individual learning plan for every student, this ensures that the programme meets the individual student needs.
This includes:
- Student centred planning for all learners
- All learners who approach the department have the right to an assessment
- For students aged 16+ there is individually planned provision of up to 3 years
- Specialists in mental health and behavioural problems who use appropriative cognitive strategies to support learners
- An inclusive curriculum with active participation in the college community
- Access to curriculum pathways as progression for learners
Preparing for work:
A range of activities have been developed to prepare students for work.
We offer:
- A range of work experience opportunities based in local companies for students
- Links with other areas of the curriculum which offer work based opportunities to students
- Supported work experience in college through our own café and shop
- Improving the College environment by taking part in horticulture activities and development of allotments
Developing life skills and confidence:
We work with students to develop confidence and maturity through many different activities including:
- Environment Studies
- Daily Living skills
- Independent travel training
- Art and craft
- Tutorial
- Sport
- Duke of Edinburgh
- Lots of trips and visits
What about Maths and English?
All of the subject areas that students will study are underpinned by English and maths . At the beginning of the year they will have a simple assessment of their English and maths skills and some students will undertake a qualification in these subjects.
Who is the course for?
Each application will be looked at carefully and a place offered to the learner based on the suitability of the course after a discussion with parents, carers, relevant agencies, previous establishment and the learners themselves.
What support is available?
During their time at college students will be provided with support from many different people:
- Personal tutors
- Speech therapists
- Social services
- Connexions
- Psychologists
- Welfare Services
- Counselling Services
Of course, we also value the important role played by parents, guardians and carers in supporting students as well.
What can I do after the course?
At the end of the teaching year new skills will be reviewed and we will discuss each student’s future with them and work closely with other agencies to find the best possible progression option. One possible progression route could be to a level 1 course or into employment.