The Gatehouse is a transitional programme which has been set up to enable students with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder, to prepare and acquire the skills and qualifications needed to access mainstream provision.

Learners will be able to develop a range of skills necessary to succeed in the next stage of their career and personal development.

The course contains sessions that aim to develop your:

• Study and Academic Skills
• Independence Skills
• Vocational Skills
• Executive Skills
• Communication and Social Skills
• Employability Skills.

The curriculum is designed to allow learners to explore their potential taking in account the unique learning needs of learners with a diagnosis of Autism. The programme aims to develop skills implementing a personalised approach that takes in account learners’ personal, social, emotional, vocational and academic growth needs. All staff are specialist in the area of Autism.

This course is suitable for those with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), who have English and maths at Entry Level 3 or above.

Before enrolment, students will meet our course tutors to ensure the course is right for them. They may also need to complete an initial assessment in English and maths, depending on their grades.

If a student has an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan), we will need a formal consultation with the Local Authority who issued it, prior to enrolment.

All students will compile a portfolio of evidence that will contain a mixture of photographs, witness statements, personal statements and course work. The portfolios are internally assessed and verified prior to external verification by an OCNLR.

Some learners will complete English/Maths GCSE if appropriate.

Most students will be entered for Functional Skills English and Maths live assessments at the level indicated during initial assessments and verified through continuous diagnostic assessments.

Progression for each learner is individually planned. If students successfully complete this programme of study they can progress onto another vocational pathway, Foundation learning, Supported Internship or mainstream options. Some learners at the end of their academic journey will progress onto community Provision.

Progression subject to students meeting eligibility criteria.

Learners will be assessed at the start of their course. Teaching and Learning will be differenciated to meet individual needs.

All students will participate in small group sessions comprising no more than 10 students. The study methods are a mix of practical, theory and independent research completed by students with appropriate support.

You will be required to:

• Undertake enterprise activities and fundraising events as part of the course.
• Work as part of a team and support others.
• Undertake specified work experience placements.

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.