Supported Learning
The College welcomes learners with learning difficulties, disabilities and special educational needs. We offer a wide range of entry level life skills and vocational courses. Learners work within a supportive environment and emphasis is placed on individualised learning plans. The courses enable learners to gain greater independence in adult life, to progression to a higher level qualification and/or prepare them for the world of work. All courses last for one year with clear progression routes through these qualifications.
Vocational courses cover a range of occupational areas delivering relevant workplace skills. Life skills courses provide the skills required for day to day life and a variety of vocational tasters for those who have no clear vocational focus at the time of entry. All courses have integrated literacy, numeracy and information technology. In addition full time students have access to a range of broader activities to enhance their confidence e.g. football and work experience These courses are most suited to students who would benefit from high levels of individual, educational and pastoral support. All courses are nationally accredited by external awarding bodies.
The courses are based at Holme Lacy Campus although teaching is done in a number of settings to ensure learners are provided with tasters to progression pathways and access to a broad range of facilities suitable for the relevant pathway. To gain an overall view of the progression pathways, please view the Progression Flowchart.
Independent travel training is offered in conjunction with Herefordshire Council and learners can access work programmes run by Workmatch.
To view photographs from the Supported Learning department, please see the Picture Gallery - Supported Learning section
Courses offered:
Entry Level 1, 2 , 3 Life Skills Award
These awards are modular based in which the students are set challenges to develop their independent living skills, self esteem and confidence in addition to improving their Literacy, Numeracy and IT skills. These qualifications give learners the opportunity to acquire knowledge and understanding of a range of skills giving learners a vocational experience of the world of work. They are designed as an introduction to the workplace and will enable progression to other qualifications, which accredit work-based competence. Modules range from teaching basic cooking techniques to planning and travelling independently, health and fitness, and managing money. Students are practically assessed on their understanding as well as building a portfolio of supporting evidence. Learners also have the opportunity to practice and develop the life skills needed to participate fully as members of their communities and as citizens in the wider community.
Vocational Courses
These courses prepare students for employment or level 1 vocational training through:
- Providing practical opportunities for experiential learning
- Developing work related skills to enhance employment potential
- Work placements in supported learning environments
To obtain the full award all students study two vocational modules as well as mandatory preparation for work and life skills modules. All courses have Basic Skills Literacy, Numeracy, and Computing teaching as part of the programme which leads to Basic Skills qualifications.
There are five strands of vocational training being offered at Entry level 2 & 3:
- NPTC Catering and Retail –the opportunity to learn basic food preparation and service techniques in a working kitchen as well as sales, costing, and marketing of a range of products in different retail settings throughout the year. Customer service and preparation for work modules are key in this area as well as mandatory lifeskills modules
- NPTC Wood Occupations and Motor Vehicle Engineering – a practical introduction to basic engineering and car maintenance as well as wood occupations. Students will learn practical techniques, about tools, processes as well as health and safety and preparation for work techniques.
- NPTC Land Based Operations – Students will learn how to care for the land. Propagation, crop maintenance , tractor driving, garden design, cropping plans, harvesting and conservation are all crucial elements of this course as well as mandatory health and safety and life skills modules.
- NPTC Animal Care – Students will work with both agricultural and small animals. They will learn how to care for them, feed them, move them and other elements essential for animal welfare. In addition to this there are mandatory 'Preparing for Work and Life' skills modules included.
- Edxcel Entry level BTEC Art, Media and Drama- students cover one mandatory health and safety module, two core modules and three specialist modules covering media skills, creative skills and performing arts. Students will cover a range of practical skills in achieving this qualification.
Key Facts
Campus: Holme Lacy Campus & Hereford.
Minimum Age: 16
Duration: 36 weeks
Awards:
NPTC Life Skills Award Entry 1,2,3
NPTC Vocational Certificate at Entry 2, 3 in:
- Retail and Catering
- Agricultural Animals and Small Animal Care
- Woodwork and Motor Vehicle Maintenance
- Landbased Horticulture and Agriculture
- Edxcel BTEC Entry 2,3 Art, Media and Design
Functional Skills: OCN Literacy, Numeracy and Information Technology certificate Entry 1,2,3 - Level 1 and Level 2
Progression:
Progression within Entry level vocational subjects and then on to level one vocational areas.
View Progression Flowchart.
Contact: 0800 032 1986
enquiries@hct.ac.uk
