Skills for Life and Employment

We offer a range of programmes for students who have faced barriers during their time at school, including those with identified Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND).

Our study programmes are designed to give young people the opportunity to develop their skills, knowledge and experience so that they can gain employment, a more independent life, or higher qualifications. Our specialist team work with learners who experience anxiety, or have special educational needs and disabilities including social, emotional and mental health needs. We plan our programme to meet Education, Health and Care Plans and other planned outcomes. Our Learning Support Team help students in lessons, at break and lunch times, and at the start and the end of the day, as appropriate. All study programmes include English, communication skills, Maths, IT, personal and social development, skills for employment and work experience.

We offer the following:

Sensory Learning

This course supports students with complex needs to develop their communication skills and to make choices as they prepare for adulthood.

Our Personal Tutors and support staff work closely with parents/carers and external agencies, assessing and setting targets across the four areas of need, as outlined in the Education, Health and Care plan. A careful transition process is always in place to ensure the provision is right for each student.

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Pathways to Employment

This course is for students who are working at foundation level and will progress to higher level qualifications, internships, apprenticeships or employment. In addition to studying English and Maths, students will have the opportunity to access vocational sessions as well as work placements.

We also offer a Cycle Mechanics course at our Parkway Centre. This course gives students the practical skills to build, service and repair bicycles in an authentic working environment, while completing a valuable vocational qualification. Our specialist staff are on hand to support learners with anxiety, Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC) and Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Project Search and Supported Internships

This includes our one-year ‘prepare for’ supported internship course. We offer five internship programmes, including Project Search, into catering for those who are keen to work in the hospitality industry and Project Bristol. The expected outcome for all our interns is part-time or full-time paid employment by the end of the internship. Tutors and specialist job coaches work together with our interns and employers to provide instruction and on-the-job training.

The Brislington Centre

The Brislington Centre is our residential training facility where 13 students each year stay from Sunday through to Friday during term time. During the College holidays, students from other programmes are invited to stay at the Centre to begin their transition into independent living, which may include preparation for life at university.

At the Brislington Centre, students develop the skills they need for a more independent life. This includes getting themselves ready for the day, shopping, cleaning, cooking, living a healthy lifestyle, travelling and accessing the local community.

Prince’s Trust

The Prince’s Trust Team Challenge is different. It’s a fun, challenging and positive experience that gives students the chance to prove how good they really are.

It’s full-time, 12 weeks long and helps students to gain experience, learn new skills and build their self-confidence.