Learning for Living and Work: Introduction to Work

General information

The course is designed for young people with learning difficulties who wish to develop the necessary skills for future employment. The overall aim is to help each student, according to their potential and abilities, to develop the practical and social skills required for the work place whilst exploring a range of vocational areas. All students receive regular tutorial support.

Course content

The course will introduce the world of work through a range of vocational subjects, which will include:

• Horticulture
• Catering
• Manufacturing

Plus:

• A programme of activities to promote self confidence and adult social skills
• Training to develop independent travel skills
• Continued development of students’ literacy, numeracy and ICT skills will be an integral aspect of the course.

All students will meet regularly with an assigned personal tutor to develop an individual learning plan, identify personal targets and review their progress.

Teaching and assessment

Students will be taught through a range of practical activities and vocational tasters using the college classrooms, workshop facilities and the local community. Assessment will be continuous and consist of tutor observation of practical skills and the assessment of completed work, which will contribute to the development of a portfolio of evidence. The course team will review students’ progress formally three times a year in relation to the course aims and their individual development targets.

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements, but applicants must have a real commitment to try hard, attend regularly and take a full part in all aspects of the course. Applicants will have the ability to:

• Move around the college campus and use facilities independently
• Use public transport and behave appropriately in public
• Travel independently on single bus journeys
• Work co-operatively with others as a member of a team
• Use practical workshops safely

Applicants will need to provide a Moving On Plan (139A assessment) or similar evidence and progress reports from their most recent education provider.

Additional course costs

All students will need to be equipped with pens and note paper. They will need a bus pass and train fare for travel training and trips out; work boots or shoes for Horticulture, Catering and Manufacturing. There will be occasional educational visits and activities when students will be expected to make a contribution towards costs.

Progression

Students will work toward individual personal targets to enable them to progress to either the Employment Preparation Course or supported employment within the community. All students will be working towards the achievement of an EDI Entry Entry Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Working Life and an EDI Entry Level 2 Certificate in Personal and Social Development.