Foundation Learning
Foundation Learning is specialist programmes designed for students aged 16-24 with special educational Needs (SEN) who respond best within a smaller group and may require extra support or time to complete set work within a mainstream environment. Students may have attended a school for those with SEN, have an Education, Health and Care Plan, had learning support at school, or not achieved the grades to move to a Level 2 programme.
Moving into further education can seem a big step, the college supports students with transition. This includes meeting the learner, parents, carers, school staff and external agencies to ensure the course is right for each individual. Having taster sessions at college and enabling learners to understand the next steps.
We also support learners to transition out of college into the next phase of their development – further education, work based training, supported or paid employment and/ or independent living. Students will take part in a learner-centred review where next steps can be planned.
Once students have applied to Foundation Learning, the college will contact your school and any other professionals you are working with to find out a little more about you. We will then invite you in for an interview where we can discuss the best options for you from our courses and tell you more about what you can expect from the college.
What will I learn?
All of our programmes offer a flexible curriculum that prepares young people for adulthood. Focussing on Employability skills, Being part of the college and wider Andover Community, Being Healthy and being independent. The college follows a learner-centred approach enabling students to take responsibility for their own learning. Foundation Learning programmes can be
studied at entry level to level 1.
All timetables include access to our wider college vocational areas and work experience. Programmes also include English, Maths and Digital Skills. Students have access to a
wide range of excellent, high-quality vocational experiences, specialist resources and facilities
across our campus, giving learners the opportunity to learn in appropriate contexts.
What will I learn?
No formal entry requirements are needed within Foundation learning. All learner’s are considered on an individual basis and matched to a course that is best placed to meet their needs and support their outcomes and move them towards their aspirations.
The aim of this study programme is for learners with a range of Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) to develop independence and successfully transition into adulthood. The programme aims to provide a differentiated and individualised approach to each learner’s programme at college in order to work towards outcomes and aspirations for the future.
Learners will:
- Develop communication skills
- Work towards individualised goals
- Develop independent living skills
- Develop employability skills
- Be an active member of the local community
- Having opportunities to develop healthy lifestyles
Supported Internships provide an individualised programme of study for young people with an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP), who want to move into employment and need extra support to do so. The programme has one primary aim which is to: wherever possible support young people to move into paid employment.
A timetable for an intern could include:
- English and Maths development
- Personal and social development
- Employability skills
- Workplace training with a specialist job coach
Entry Requirements
This course is available to students who have studied one of our Foundation or Mainstream courses here at the college and have completed a successful work
experience.
The aim of this study programme is for learners who may have attended a school
or college provision for students with additional learning needs to develop skills
to successfully transition to another college course or supported/paid work.
Learners will:
- Develop English and Maths Skills
- Develop Independence skills
- Work towards individualised goals
- Complete a vocational option one day a week
Our level 1 programme is for young people who have not yet achieved four GCSEs at Grade 3 or above and so are not ready for Level 2 programme.
It is a one-year course aimed at 16–17 year olds straight from school. As well as helping
you achieve your GCSE or Functional Skills English and maths qualifications, you will
learn employability skills, digital skills, undertake a work experience, and get the opportunity to gain a qualification in a vocational subject. The course is taught in small friendly learning groups with learning support available. You will have a personal tutor who will work with you towards individualised goals.
The aim of the course is to enable students to develop the personal independence, confidence, skills and knowledge you need to progress to Level 1 or 2 in your chosen vocational area. There are study support classes included in the timetable to help students develop important independent study skills.
Entry Requirements
Students may have GCSEs at grades 1 or 2. There are no formal entry criteria for this course, but students may be asked to complete an assessment.
The vocational pathways are taught by specialist lecturers who will you develop practical skills in a professional environment including:
Creative Media
For students who have an interest in creative subjects, this option can lead to arts or IT based subjects. Students will develop a wide range of skills covering interactive and digital design, photography and media communication which will support you in developing your skills, knowledge and understanding of Media, Art and Design.
Construction
Providing the ideal introduction to the construction industry this covers essential skills in the construction trades. You will learn basic brick laying and carpentry skills, use hand tools and specialist equipment, as well as the importance of health and safety. You will find out what you enjoy, and the skill can lead to a specialist qualification in
bricklaying or carpentry the following year.
The Caring Sector
You will learn about the foundations of caring across all sectors and have the opportunity to look at a variety of roles and care environments. This includes health and social care (adults and children and young people) and early years and childcare. You will learn the basic understanding of the principles and values and service provision and roles in both areas, as well as an awareness of protection and safeguarding that is so important for these roles.
Motor Vehicle
You will learn basic technical needs for the motor vehicle repair industry. You will
learn the basic operating principles and maintenance working with engines, tyres,
brakes. You will also gain a broad knowledge and understanding of health and safety in the workplace and other skills associated with working in a garage.
Sport and Public Services
Designed to provide you with the basic knowledge relating to a range of public service and sports sectors. You will look at careers in these areas, work on problem solving skills, take part in sports activities, and look at the importance of a healthy life