Course Overview
This course will take place at Strode College. To find out more about Strode College, please click here.
Are you ready to shape your future in a supportive, flexible, and person-centred environment? This bespoke programme is designed for young people aged 16–18 (or up to 24 with an Education, Health and Care Plan) who would benefit from a nurturing and responsive setting to support their social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs.
This course empowers you to become more confident, independent, and prepared for adult life by focusing on your strengths, aspirations, and goals. Learning is co-created with you, placing your voice at the centre of your journey. Together with your tutors, you’ll build a programme that supports your development; academically, emotionally, and socially.
The programme includes regular enrichment opportunities, community engagement, and a personalised tutorial system that supports both your academic progress and personal development.
Topics may include:
- Employability skills (award or certificate)
- Independent living skills
- Preparing for work and adulthood
- Health and wellbeing
- Functional skills: English and maths tailored to your level
- Communication and social interaction
- Self-management and resilience building.
Assessment Methods
You will be assessed through a City and Guilds Employability qualification which is marked internally by Strode College staff and validated by an external moderator.
Maths and English assessments will take place either through an assessment or portfolio of skills which are marked internally by Strode College staff and validated by an external moderator.
Your progress will be assessed in a way that reflects your personal learning style and pace, which may include continuous classroom-based assessments, self-evaluation and goal setting with your personal tutor, and progress tracking through the Recognising and Recording Progress and Achievement (RARPA) process.
Progression Options
On completion of this programme, you’ll be supported to explore your next steps, which may include progression to other FE courses, a supported internship, volunteering or entry-level employment, local day service provision, or continued development through tailored pathways.
Your personal tutor will work closely with you to explore options and support a smooth transition into your next stage of education or work.
Entry Requirements
You need to be 16–18 years of age, or up to 24 with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
There are no entry requirements for this course, but all students will attend an assessment interview to ensure they are placed at the right level.
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.
