Course Overview
Aimed at young people with learning difficulties and/or disabilities, this inclusive and supportive programme is designed for young people who are ready to build confidence, develop independence, and gain the essential life and work skills needed to prepare for adulthood.
At the heart of this course is a person-centred approach. You will work closely with your Personal Tutor to co-create a learning plan tailored to your individual needs, aspirations, and preferred learning style. The programme empowers you to take an active role in shaping your future by focusing on what matters to you
You will explore a wide range of transferable life and employability skills through practical, real-life experiences. These will help you to develop the independence and confidence needed for everyday life and the world of work. You’ll also have opportunities to experience different work environments, helping you make informed choices about your future career path.
Topics may include:
- Life skills: communication, independent living, staying safe and healthy
- Work skills: Teamwork, problem-solving, understanding the workplace
- Community engagement and self-advocacy
- Functional English and maths, tailored to your level
- Employability skills qualification (award, certificate, or Diploma level).
Assessment Methods
Assessment is ongoing and takes place at your own place focusing on practical application and personal progress.
You will work collaboratively with your tutor to set and review personal goals using the Recognising and Recording Progress and Achievement (RARPA) framework. Together, you will reflect on your development in areas such as communication, independence, and engagement in learning.
You will work towards a City and Guilds Employability Qualification which is marked internally by Strode College staff and validated by an external moderator.
Validation of Functional Skills Maths and English achievement will take place through assessment or the production of a portfolio of skills.
Progression Options
Upon completing this course, you may progress to further FE courses, supported internship or similar employment programmes, or local day service provision.
Your personal tutor will guide you through the decision-making process to help you choose the path that’s right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can apply directly on any of the UCS College Group websites, whether you wish to study at Bridgwater College, Cannington College, Strode College, or Taunton College. Simply use our “Find a Course” feature and follow the on-screen instructions – be sure to have your important information to hand.
We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.
The Student Experience Team can mentor and signpost students who are struggling with a range of issues that are negatively impacting their day-to-day life. The Student Experience Team works closely with the Safeguarding & Lifestyle Teams to promote proactive wellbeing enrichment sessions. The team can refer on to counselling when appropriate.
We provide top-quality workshops and teaching areas across our Colleges for subjects such as art, design and media, hair and beauty, catering, automotive engineering and construction. You can review our campus facilities by navigating to the “College Life” section of our websites.
For us, the success of our students always comes first. By investing in our built environment, we are investing in your future.
All of our students will have a personal tutor to support them with their academic progress and personal development. The tutorial programme consists of 1:1 support, group tutorials and guest speakers, plus targeted online resources which complement the UCS College Group Advantage scheme.
The Safeguarding Team can offer advice and guidance on anything that may be affecting your young person and their studies – no problem is too big or too small!
Please email our Safeguarding team at staysafe@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk. If you query is urgent, please come to the College Reception and ask to speak to a Safeguarding Officer.
If you cannot find an answer to your question in this FAQ section, you can ask us a question by visiting our Contact Us page.
