This is an exciting and innovative course at L1 for young people who have additional support needs and would like to have experience of what a vocational mainstream course entails in a supported environment. The main aim of this course is for young people to familiarise within a FE college in order to support them to access a vocational mainstream course, supported internship or finding employment.

One day will be spent in a mainstream vocational class.  The choice of vocational areas will be:

• Health and Social Care 
• ICT
• Business and Admin
• Construction
• Sports & Public Services
• Art & Design
• Media
• Health & Social Care

This flexible programme will be tailored to meet the needs of the individual students.  The course will comprise a number of core units focusing on a range of employability and work-related skills.

As part of the programme the learners will be able to develop employability, personal and social skills through the curriculum offer.  The offer includes English, maths, enrichment, tutorial and social inclusion activities which will build on learners’ community presence.  There will also be an opportunity to do work experience with a suitable employer.

At least 2 GCSEs grade1's in English and maths
A keen interest in the vocational area of choice.

All learners will compile a portfolio of evidence that will contain their completed written coursework assignments, a mixture of photographs, video, witness statements and personal statements.  The portfolios are internally assessed and verified prior to external verification by an awarding body.

Most learners will be entered for GCSE or Functional Skills in English and Maths. Live assessments at the level indicated during initial assessments and verified through continuous diagnostic assessments or if they are not yet ready will do RARPA English and Maths qualifications.

Learners could progress onto a Level 1 mainstream course, Supported Internships or Supported Apprenticeships, subject to assessments and meeting entry requirements of the programme applied for.

All learners participate in group sessions as well as individual study.  The study methods are a mix of practical, theory and independent research, completed by learners with appropriate support.

School Leavers (16-18)

If you will be 16, 17 or 18 years old on 31 August before your course starts, and you have the legal right to live in the UK for the full length of your study programme, your course will be free.

You may also be eligible for financial help to support with books, travel, course materials and childcare costs – please click here for more information.

Adult Students (19+)

If you will be aged 19 or older on 31 August before your course starts, are resident in London, and have the legal right to stay in the UK for at least 12 months, you may be eligible to study for free, depending on your circumstances and chosen course. For more information, please click here.

You may also be eligible for financial help to support with books, travel, course materials and childcare costs – please click here.

You may be eligible for financial help to support with books, travel, course materials and childcare costs – please click here for more information.