XXXX
Welcome 4
Our facilities
12
Meet the team
5
English and maths
16
Come and see for yourself
6
What’s in it for you?
17
Student success - Chloe
7
10 Reasons
18
Student success - James
8
Our Courses
19
Student success - Ellie
9
Art, Design & Media
20
Life at Skills
10
Childcare (Health & Social Care) 22
2
Tel: 01642 607 464
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
XXXX
Construction 24
News 36
Digital Media
26
How we’ll support you
42
Foundation Skills
28
Student success - Charlotte
44
Hair & Beauty
30
Student success - Molly
45
Information Technology
32
Testimonials 46
Positive Pathways
34
Contact us
47
The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
3
XXXX
WELCOME Offering a range of introductory level courses, The Skills Academy is the ideal choice if you prefer to learn in a smaller environment. It provides another option for those aged 14 to 18 who may be looking for a different kind of learning experience. With a focus on practical learning, lessons are delivered in a calm and friendly environment, helping you to build the skills and the confidence you need to succeed.
Photography - Cal Carey Graphic Design - Rachael Eland Collation & Editing - Stacey Nicholson Everyone in this guide is either a student, staff member or friend of The Skills Academy. Our thanks to all involved.
4
Tel: 01642 607 464
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
MEET THE TEAM
Tracey Laycock
Mark Shaw
Rebecca Matthews
Alternative Provision Manager
14 -16 Progress Coach
Assistant Principal
Lee Pink
Andrew Gray
Rebecca Angus
Alternative Provision Tutor
Alternative Provision Tutor
Alternative Provision Tutor
Leanne Keane-Barker
Stacey Nicholson
Elizabeth Boagey
Safeguarding, Welfare and Behaviour Support Assistant
Marketing Officer
Receptionist
The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
5
COME AND SEE FOR YOURSELF We have open events throughout the year, offering you the chance to visit us and see what life at The Skills Academy is all about. You can chat to our knowledgeable and industry experienced tutors about the courses you’re interested in and explore our facilities for yourself. Need careers advice or help with your application? We offer that too, it’s well worth a visit.
We are looking forward to meeting you and have booked in some face-to-face open events for the year ahead. However, depending on the latest government advice regarding social distancing guidelines, we may need to review our plans, so please, take a note of the following dates but don’t forget to keep an eye on our website and social media pages for all the latest information and updates.
Monday 28th June 2021 1.00pm - 4.30pm
6
Tel: 01642 607 464
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
CHLOE PROGRESSES WITH CREATIVE ARTS & MEDIA THANKS TO THE SKILLS ACADEMY
Why I chose Skills... Name: Chloe • A small environment Aspiratio n: Artist • Additional support from Course: Creative Arts & the staff Media
If anyone was considering going to The Skills Academy I would really hope they do, the staff are always there to help and will sit and have a chat with you if you are struggling with something. It made my days at college so good and actually made me want to go every day.
• Fun and challenging course
Next Steps... Chloe is now progressing on to Stockton Riverside College to study Level 2 Art and Media, Chloe puts her new-found confidence down to her time at The Skills Academy. The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
7
JAMES STUDIED CONSTRUCTION AT THE SKILLS ACADEMY AND IS NOW MOVING ON TO FURTHER STUDY
Name: James Aspiratio n: Go to college Course: Multi-Skills James said: “Skills is a great place to go if you prefer to learn in a smaller space. My multi-skills course was really fun and I had such a good time in the lessons and my teachers were really helpful.” 8
Tel: 01642 607 464
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
Why I chose Skills... • A small environment • Fun and practical course • Helpful teachers
Next Steps... Having now completed his level one qualification, James is exploring the possibility of studying a business or joinery related course at Stockton Riverside College.
ELLIE SECURES AN APPRENTICESHIP IN A HAIR SALON AFTER HER LEVEL ONE COURSE
Name: Ellie Aspiratio n: Have her
own hair salon Hair & Beauty
Course:
Rebecca, hair and beauty lecturer, said: “Ellie has such a talent for the industry, and I know she will go on to be very successful if she continues to work hard.” Ellie added: “If somebody asked me about joining Skills I would one hundred percent tell them to go for it, it’s an amazing opportunity.”
Why I chose Skills... • Working in a smaller building • Opportunity to make new friends • Practical course
Next Steps... Ellie has achieved her level one qualification and has now secured a two-year apprenticeship in a salon to gain more experience in the world of work. The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
9
ENRICHMENT We offer many enrichment opportunities for all. Take part in activities like sign language or first aid lessons, or one of our many cross-campus festivals. Gain valuable experience by joining the Student Association to represent your area of study, or turn up the fun by starting your own student club or society!
TUTORIALS Alongside your course you will take part in regular tutorials. We want you to not only successfully complete your qualification but also develop the skills to make informed choices and become a well-rounded citizen. Tutorials are also a chance to catch up with your tutor, keep track of your progress and plan your next steps.
TRIPS Many of our courses come with the opportunity to take part in some amazing visits and trips. Whether it’s travelling
10
Tel: 01642 607 464
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
abroad, making industry visits or exploring art galleries or theatres, our trips will help you apply your new-found skills to the real world.
ALRIGHT SRC Our action-packed event, Alright SRC, is an event which promotes positive mental health and wellbeing, Be Kind to your Mind. The event promotes positive mental health and tackles the stigma around poor mental health. You will be given the opportunity to take part in practical workshops, promoting relaxation, mindfulness and opening conversations about how you are feeling. Looking after your mind is as important as looking after your body.
SHOW A LITTLE RESPECT At The Skills Academy we believe in respect. This means looking outside of your everyday life and showing respect and understanding for all those around you. We celebrate respect for all with an annual
festival, sharing cultures and experiences, with a focus on promoting equality, diversity and inclusion across the site.
STUDENT ASSOCIATION
We know that walking into a new place, starting a new course and being surrounded by new people can seem pretty daunting. That is why we encourage a year-round culture of kindness across The Skills Academy. It doesn’t have to mean going out of your way to do something big. Often the simplest acts of kindness can make the biggest difference. So, whether it’s offering a smile, holding a door or saying a quick thanks, remember to always Be Kind.
We have many amazing ways in which you can play an active role in college life. If you would like to have your say and represent your fellow students, then why not get involved in our Student Association? The Association works alongside Student Services, helping out at events, promoting activities and engaging others in enrichment activities including clubs and societies. We are also keen for students to set up their own student societies. Whatever your interest or hobby, if you want to put on activities or just meet like-minded individuals, get started and we’ll help you along the way.
ENTERPRISE
FIGURE IT OUT
BE KIND
Whichever course you choose you can develop your entrepreneurial skills with our fantastic enterprise programme. We offer opportunities to try out your ideas and run your own business.
Whatever you want to do in the future, English and maths matter. Our Figure It Out Festival encourages students to develop their skills by taking part in a series of fun activities and workshops. It all adds to your success!
The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
11
OUR FACILITIES
BEAUTY LAB 9 beauty or nail , g in ss re d ir a h As a from you will benefit t, n e d u st s e ic serv salon. all and friendly sm r u o in g in rn lea by ‘Beauty Lab 9’ d e m a n ly te a ri Approp ives you e salon itself g th , ts n e d u st s previou basins, of the art wash te a st to ss h e c ac tables and muc e g a ss a m s, n o work stati more. be supervised All students will cturer. by a qualified le
12
ART & DESIGN ROOM Realise your true potential in our colourful and creative art room! Paint, draw, model and photograph your way to success with help from our amazing lecturers.
COMPUTER SUITE Technology is advancing everyday and whether you are looking at how computers are made, how to fix them or creating digital artwork, we can help. With a small computer suite available, students are able to work independently or closely with tutors in order to progress.
The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
13
KATY’S CAFÉ Looking for a bite to eat? Katy’s Café has got you covered! Pre-order a hot meal or even just grab a snack during your lunch break.
CONSTRUCTION ROOM Our spacious construction room allows students to work and learn in a safe and fun environment. Supervised by a qualified lecturer, students will work with construction equipment such as saws, vice grips and paint.
COMMUNAL AREAS Whether you are looking to catch up with friends or grab a quiet minute to yourself, we have something for everyone. Although we are small, we have the space to make you feel comfortable and enjoy your time at The Skills Academy.
14
Tel: 01642 607 464
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
WORKING KITCHEN Cook up a storm in our working kitchen and learn some skills for life. Whether you are interested in baking cakes or creating a curry, our facilities are the perfect place for you to learn.
POOL TABLE If you are looking to unwind between classes, you can do so with a friendly game of pool. Use our pool table and pool cues to socialise with friends and enjoy your experience with us at Skills.
The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
15
ENGLISH AND MATHS These are skills that we can all take for granted, but we all use English and maths every day, often without even thinking about it. At The Skills Academy we know how important these skills are to your future success and that is why we want to help all of our students develop their basic knowledge and pick up the qualifications to match. For students under 19, it is a Government requirement that you keep working towards these essential GCSEs, if you haven’t already achieved grade 9-4/A*-C. 16
Tel: 01642 607 464
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
At The Skills Academy, if you haven’t already achieved what you need, we will help you work towards these important qualifications and continue to develop your knowledge alongside your full-time course. We want to help you make the grade!
FREE MEALS** Free college meals!
WIFI FREE TRAVEL* Travelling to and from College couldn’t be easier, with bus routes available across Teesside. www.stockton.ac.uk
ADVICE You can access free advice and guidance about careers, your CV and next steps.
PRINT CREDITS You will receive a free termly print allowance.
FREE MICROSOFT OFFICE 365
STUDENT BURSARY** We provide support towards the cost of essential kit, uniform and IT resources to help support you with your studies.
USE OF IT EQUIPMENT Including iPads, cameras and video cameras. You can also loan a laptop to study at home, completely free.
To find out more about our latest offers and discounts visit www.stockton.ac.uk *Subject to change. Conditions may apply. **Subject to eligibility criteria. Please visit the Student Services section of our website for more information. The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
17
10 REASONS TO CHOOSE THE SKILLS ACADEMY:
Small and friendly college. Classes are small to help focus on one-toone support and meet each individual’s needs.
Teaching staff are knowledgeable and have great industry experience.
We are a close knit college where people feel like a family.
Practical and hands-on with industry standard equipment in our classrooms.
We have great progression and pass rates.
We have learning support on hand to help with any of your needs. Whether that is in or out of the classroom, our team are here to support you.
We go on regular trips, visits and enrichment excursions!
You can take part in our Enterprise programme. We donated to Billingham food bank in December 2020.
18
Tel: 01642 607 464
As a college we offer FREE travel, print credits, wifi and meals.* We have social areas where you can relax between lessons.
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
*Subject to change and eligibility criteria.
DID YOU KNOW?
arners All of the le this throughout real re a prospectus e m Th Skills students fro o you Academy! D nyone? recognise a
OUR COURSES
All of our qualifications are skills-based qualifications designed to help learners develop the personal and social skills needed to help them to progress to independent living, future employment or further vocational study.
The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
19
ART, DESIGN & MEDIA
20
Tel: 01642 607 464
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
Course Type: Level 1, Full-Time Length: One year Entry Requirements: An interest in art and design or the creative industries.
Are you interested in a career in Art and Design? If you are creative, love drawing, painting, sculpting and you have a passion for art, then we can offer you the chance to explore your interests on a course that is just right for you. Whether you see yourself as a budding artist or designer, a future film maker, make-up artist, fashion designer or animator we can help you develop the skills you need. There are many reasons to apply including: having the opportunity to be part of real-life work-related projects, speak with artists and guest speakers from the industry, exhibit your work, have the opportunity to take part in work experience and go on trips to exhibitions.
Level 1 Award & Diploma in Art, Design & Media What will I do? Our Creative Arts and Media course at Level 1 can help you try a range of
new skills including fine arts, textiles, graphics, sculpture, photography and video editing, which will help you decide the direction you want to go in. You will learn through tutor-led practical and work-related activities. You will learn to develop your skills in drawing, painting and using different techniques. You will learn about a range of different careers such as product design, fashion design, model making and set design. How am I assessed? Continuous assessment by your tutors on a regular basis throughout the year and you will receive informal and formal assessment reviews as well as regular tutorials and progress reviews. What’s next? You could move on to a relevant level 2 course, going on to specialise in art & design, creative media, film production, production arts or performing arts in the future.
The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
21
HEALTH, SOCIAL CARE & CHILDCARE
22
Tel: 01642 607 464
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
Course Type: Level 1, Full-Time Length: One year Entry Requirements: An interest in childcare or health and social care.
We believe there is nothing more important than taking responsibility for a child’s wellbeing. Whether working as a teacher, nursery nurse or in the care industry, it is vital you can offer a service that is caring, supportive, fun and stimulating. Our courses will show you how to develop all of these skills and apply them at work.
Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health, Social Care and Children’s and Young People Settings What will I do? You will develop the skills needed to work with babies, young children and clients in health and social care settings. Covering subjects including development, safeguarding, health and safety and organising activities.
The qualification is delivered through a range of both taught and practical sessions, enabling learners to obtain the skills required to work with young children. Alongside this qualification, learners will attend functional skills or GCSE Maths and English to support their further development in these areas. How am I assessed? All units will be internally assessed using a range of methods. This could include a portfolio of evidence, written assignments, posters, presentations and professional discussion. What’s next? You could move onto a full Level 1 course in Health & Social Care or Childcare, or on to a relevant Level 2 course.
The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
23
CONSTRUCTION
24
Tel: 01642 607 464
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
Course Type: Level 1, Full-Time Length: One year Entry Requirements: An interest in construction or the trade industries.
This qualification provides the ideal introduction to the construction industry and covers essential practical hand tool skills and industry knowledge on legislation and health and safety. This course gives students the chance to explore the opportunities within the construction trades. This is a predominately practical based course with an essential element of theory-based sessions.
Level 1 Certificate in Construction (Joinery and Carpentry)
Introduction to the construction industry. It will then focus on joinery/ carpentry skills and techniques with opportunities throughout the year to visit other college sites for taster sessions in other construction trades. Students will also take part in construction projects and enrichment activities. How am I assessed? Students are assessed on both practical activities and theory, through module based assignments. What’s next? Progression onto a specific Construction trade or apprenticeship.
What will I do? The course will cover mandatory units on health and safety and the
The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
25
DIGITAL MEDIA
26
Tel: 01642 607 464
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
Course Type: Level 1, Full-Time Length: One year Entry Requirements: An interest in working in the digital media industries.
Are you ready to start your career path to working in the media industry? If you are creative, and want to discover more about today’s media landscape, then this is an ideal course for you.
Level 1 Introductory Award/Certificate/Diploma in Digital Media What will I do? The course will cover: • • • • • • •
As well as wider key skills including: • Being Organised • Developing a Personal Progression Plan How am I assessed? You will create a digital portfolio and units are internally assessed by your lecturers. What’s next? Progress to a relevant Level 2 Course in Digital Media.
Creating a Storyboard Designing an Interactive Presentation Producing an Advert Layout Design for a Digital Product Creating an Animation Shooting a Short Film Making an Audio Recording
The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
27
FOUNDATION SKILLS
28
Tel: 01642 607 464
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
Course Type: Foundation Skills, 3 days a week Length: One year Entry Requirements: No minimum qualifications. Places are offered following interviews, references and school reports.
Whatever your individual goals, we can help you develop the skills you need to achieve. Whether you want to continue in education, start work or live more independently, our personalised courses can help you build the skills and confidence you need.
How am I assessed? Classes are taught in small groups. You will learn by discussions, practical activities and a range of tasks including work experience. To pass the qualification, students are required to complete a portfolio.
Foundation Skills
What’s next? We can help you to prepare for your next steps, this maybe:
What will I do? • English • Maths • Confidence Building • Communication • Money Management • Cooking • Garden Horticulture • And much more!
• Progress to another college course • Progress to an internship • Progress to volunteering/employment
The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
29
HAIR & BEAUTY
30
Tel: 01642 607 464
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
Course Type: Level 1, Full-Time Length: One year Entry Requirements: Great attitude, good work ethic, creative skills and goal orientated. You must be willing to work both independently and as a team player.
At The Skills Academy you are given the opportunity to grow, build confidence and learn new skills. In the hair and beauty department we have high expectations and push you to your greatest potential; hard work, teamwork and initiative is essential.
Level 1 Award in Hair & Beauty What will I do? You will learn both practical and theoretical skills to give you the confidence to go out to industry or progress onto Level 2 Hair or Beauty. Prep for employment, Mathematics, English and Tutorial sessions will prepare you for wider skills; along with guest speakers and opportunities
to participate in a real working environment. Your year will be busy and jam packed. How am I assessed? Work booklets are assigned, and practical skills are observed for assessment. You will demonstrate excellent client care, professionalism in the workplace and have the opportunity to develop confidence in your new skills. What’s next? Once completed you have the freedom to choose whichever path suits you with the support of your tutor and department; whether it be hair, beauty, nails, makeup or something completely different, the decision is yours.
The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
31
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
32
Tel: 01642 607 464
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
Course Type: Level 1, Full-Time Length: One year Entry Requirements: An interest in IT and computers.
Everyone needs IT skills whether you are at work, home or even on the move. This course is for those who have a grasp of the basics but want to build on that knowledge. You will learn how to design and build digital products, enabling you to use digital tools as a means to inform, persuade and entertain. It will develop your creativity and independent learning skills.
protect computers and data, how to program a computer, how to design and create your own spreadsheet and how to manage an IT project.
Level 1 Introduction Certificate/Diploma in Information Technology
What’s next? Progress to a relevant Level 2 course such as the Level 2 Technical Diploma in IT.
How am I assessed? All topics will be assessed through a summative project brief, consisting of practical activities and resulting in a portfolio of evidence.
What will I do? Offering hands-on practical experience you’ll learn a range of skills including: how computer systems work, how to
The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
33
POSITIVE PATHWAYS
34
Tel: 01642 607 464
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
Course Type: A programme that develops the skills and knowledge of core subjects, combined with a range of different vocational sessions to support sustained engagement in education. Length: 36 weeks, roll-on roll-off Entry Requirements: Willingness to engage and a positive attitude.
Positive Pathways is a full-time programme for Year 10 and Year 11 learners who have been referred by their school. Primarily based at The Skills Academy but will include visits to other Etc. campuses.
Positive Pathways What will I do? These programmes support the main Key Stage 4 subjects including: • Maths • English • English Literature • Biology • IT • Sport Learners will also have the opportunity to try a range of vocational programmes including: • Hair & Beauty • Construction Multi-Skills
• Art & Design • IT • Digital Media • Health Social & Childcare and more… Personal development can also be achieved through Enterprise, Enrichment and Tutorial sessions and activities. How am I assessed? Not all learners will complete a formal qualification but assessment could include: exam assessment (Maths and English), practical activities and portfolio building. School assessment and initial college assessments will determine which pathway a learner will join with regular reviews taking place throughout the year. What’s next? After the initial referral by the school successful learners will be invited into College for a taster and interview.
The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
35
NEWS Billingham Town
they can in the upcoming months.
After a successful first season, The Skills Academy has once again joined forces with local football team Billingham Town in a one-year sponsorship deal.
Ray Morton, Football Secretary at Billingham Town Football Club, said:
With the hope of creating valuable work experience opportunities for their students, Alternative Provision Manager at The Skills Academy, Tracey Laycock said: “It is very important to us that we can make links with the local community. Billingham Town is important to the local area and young people. We hope it will help us create many opportunities for our learners. So many dedicated and hardworking volunteers run the club and hopefully as a college, we can get involved and help.” With current restrictions in place, the staff at The Skills Academy have not been able to cheer on the team from the stands this season but are hoping to attend as many games as
Ray Morton Billingham Town Football Club
36
Tel: 01642 607 464
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
“The Skills Academy provides a great opportunity for students to learn new skills, this is something we hope to assist with when conditions are more favourable.” “Having been a teacher at Northfield School and the Bishopton Centre in recent years, I know how great the support and development is provided to students by The Skills Academy and we look forward to working together with staff and students going forward.” Currently in the Ebac Northern League, Billingham Town aims to support local player development from grassroot football to academy level. The club aspires to use sport as a tool to motivate and inspire individuals and local communities. The club has also recently established a new Under 18 team.
Enterprise Project A group of college students chose to combine education with empathy and raise money for a local charity. The positive pathways students at The Skills Academy decided to raise money for their local Billingham food bank as part of their enterprise project. Working closely with tutor Lee, the group planned a range of fundraising activities such as sweet bags, car washes and a bake sale. Positive pathways tutor Lee said: “I am so proud of the students, they organised a number of fundraising events with very little assistance and they are really dedicated to helping their local community.”
The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
37
NHS Poems The amazing staff at the University Hospital of North Tees were given a huge boost from students at The Skills Academy after receiving a poster full of inspirational poems. Despite the tough circumstances of working from home, the positive pathways students from The Skills Academy wanted to recognise their local NHS heroes with some powerful individual poems created by both staff and students. Using acrostic style poetry, the group wanted to show their appreciation for the NHS and used words such as ‘heroes’, ‘determined’ and ‘compassionate’ as a thank you for the amazing work they are doing during the current global pandemic.
The kindness shown by the students has really made a difference and we are proud to work in a community with such hard working and thoughtful young people. 38
Tel: 01642 607 464
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
Kevin Aaron, Porter at North Tees Hospital, said: “When we received the poems, it really was a huge pick me up for myself and the team. We can’t thank the students enough for taking the time to do this for us. We have a very rewarding job here at North Tees but it can be tough sometimes, especially with the introduction of Covid. The kindness shown by the students has really made a difference and we are proud to work in a community with such hard working and thoughtful young people.” Tracey Laycock, Alternative Provision Manager at The Skills Academy, said: “I am so proud of the work completed by our positive pathways students. Learning from home is a challenge for everyone but the way the students stayed engaged with their studies was admirable and a credit to them. We are glad that the work from our students helped put a smile on the faces of some of our NHS heroes, we continue to support and admire you in this very tough time.”
Bright futures start at The Skills Academy
Amy Art & Design
Amy never dreamt that University would be for her. In fact, she says: “I didn’t intend to go to college, never mind university.” Despite facing her own struggles with anxiety, the 21-year-old from Nunthorpe has adopted a mentality that helps to get her through. “You just have to get on with it!”, seems to have become her mantra, when asked how she has achieved all that she has to date. The Art & Design student who started her college journey at The Skills Academy in Billingham before moving on to Stockton Riverside College, progressed to higher education with a Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma triple distinction (including two distinction stars) under her belt. Course leader, Liz Dixon, said: “Amy is really talented and she always pushes herself.” When it comes to her work, she said: “Amy has so many ideas, she really creates and that’s what’s needed in the creative industries, people that can think differently.” For the budding young artist, it just took finding the right place and people to help build her confidence and allow that talent to thrive. “That’s part of our job,” said Liz, who delivers classes across both college campuses in Billingham and Stockton. “Often it’s about developing confidence, self esteem as well as the course skills.” The Skills Academy is a great place for those who don’t feel quite ready for a larger college environment. Offering entry level courses for school leavers as well
Story continues on next page...
The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
39
as 14 to 16 alternative provision, it can help young people to build their self esteem, learn new skills and be inspired. Amy said: “The Skills Academy was a great stepping stone for me, everyone was friendly and that helped build my confidence and self esteem. It was a great starting point.” After receiving an unconditional offer at the Northern School of Art to study Surface Pattern and Textiles she once again felt those nerves, but her advice to herself and others was, “Just go for it!” And Aiden would agree. Like Amy, he found his route to success at The Skills Academy. First to admit he wasn’t “the best in school”, studying a multi-skills course part-time at the College in Billingham helped him rediscover his motivation. Finding he enjoyed learning in the academy’s calm and friendly atmosphere he moved on to an IT course and has never looked back.
Aiden IT
40
Tel: 01642 607 464
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
“I found college just felt like such a different environment for me, there wasn’t those categories that you can get in school where there are the “popular people” and the “unpopular people”, everyone just knows each other and you are all the same,” said the 19-year-old from Yarm. “Our teacher is great. He puts so much extra effort in and really wants to know what you are doing next. It makes a big difference.” It was that driving force that inspired Aiden to pursue his studies, moving on to Stockton Riverside College. Completing his level 3 qualification he progressed to the College’s HNC in Computing Systems and Development. Tracey Laycock, Alternative Provision Manager, said: “We are so incredibly proud of our students and what they go on to achieve. The Skills Academy offers a calm and caring learning environment where we aim to encourage, inspire and motivate all of our young people to go on to reach their true potential.”
Liz Dixon Art & Design Tutor
Tracey Laycock Alternative Provision Manager
The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
41
HOW WE’LL SUPPORT YOU HEALTH & WELLBEING The College has a team dedicated to your health and wellbeing. If you need information or advice on anything from financial worries to bullying, sexual health or drug and alcohol misuse, our youth workers are available to help.
LEARNING SUPPORT Our Learning Support Team are dedicated to making sure our learners receive the support they need. We can arrange a support interview and make sure the appropriate support is put in place. Our aim is to make sure our learners are respected and cared for as individuals and are encouraged and supported to reach their potential at all times. Learning Support services include support for students who are visually impaired, have a hearing impairment, those with mobility issues, dyslexia, autism or any learning or physical difficulty and/or disability.
SAFEGUARDING Across the College we have a safeguarding and welfare team with dedicated safeguarding roles at each site to prioritise your safety at all times. We can offer advice, support and ensure that help from other agencies external to College can be sought to enable the best outcomes for our students’ safety and overall wellbeing. If you should feel unsafe or feel you need to access support we are here to make sure you are heard and safe at all times.
42
Tel: 01642 607 464
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
EQUALITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION We value the diversity of our college community and promote inclusion for all. We make sure that all of our students receive the same provision and access to our services. We encourage a culture of respect and commit to tackling prejudice at all levels. By encouraging students and staff to share their own experiences, we aim to promote mutual understanding.
STUDENT BURSARY You will be invited to fill out a bursary application form when you come for an interview at the College, or apply online www.stockton.ac.uk. This will determine whether you are eligible for support with travel, childcare, meals or equipment*. *Subject to change.
ENGLISH AND MATHS You may not always realise it but English and maths play a part in everything we do, they are also skills that mean a lot to employers. That is why, alongside your lessons, our team will help you to build on these essential skills.
SEN/EHCP We are committed to supporting you to meet your individual goals and aspirations. We welcome applications from students with special education needs, learning disabilities/difficulties and or other support needs. We will work with you to provide you with the right resources, support and services to meet your needs. To ensure we can provide the best support we will ask to see a copy of your Education and Health Care Plan or SEN (Special Educational Needs) Support Plan. This will allow us to understand your support needs and provide appropriate support. We will work with you, your family, your current provider and any other professionals involved, to put in place a transition plan to help you settle into and adjust to college life. We work closely with the local authorities to adhere to the special educational needs code of practice (SEN) to meet the needs of our students. Rebecca and Tracey The Skills Academy
The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
43
CHARLOTTE THANKS THE SKILLS ACADEMY FOR HER NEW CAREER ASPIRATIONS
Name: Charlotte Aspiratio n: Technician Course: IT (Information Technology)
Charlotte said: “It wasn’t until I found The Skills Academy that I really knew my true potential. I chose to study Level 1 Information Technology and I’ve never looked back. I was able to make new friends and I had fantastic one-on-one support for my dyslexia.” 44
Tel: 01642 607 464
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
Why I chose Skills... • Fun and practical lesson style • New to the area and nervous to start in a big college environment
Next Steps... Charlotte wants to pursue a career as an IT technician thanks to lecturer Simon and his lesson style. She added: “I would definitely recommend The Skills Academy to anyone.”
MOLLY HAS PLANS TO GO TO UNIVERSITY TO STUDY ILLUSTRATION Name: Molly Aspiratio n: Illustrator Course: Creative Arts & Media
Chris Cameron, lecturer, said: “During her time here, Molly has made amazing progress. She has worked really hard to achieve her goals and has produced some fantastic artwork. College has been a challenge for Molly and although there has been times that she has struggled, she never gave up, she kept pushing onwards and she has accomplished great things. I am so proud of you Molly, well done!”
Why I chose Skills... • The Skills Academy was much smaller and less crowded than other colleges and the number of people in each class was comfortable for me.
Next Steps... Molly says: “The teachers have been so supportive and understanding which really helped me. The course has given me the knowledge and confidence to progress onto level 2 and eventually university.” The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
45
TESTIMONIALS The Skills Academy is an outstanding provision that has significantly improved the life chances of our students who have attended. As a school we have seen a real improvement in students attendance, aspirations and attitude towards their learning following placements at The Skills Academy. Our parents/carers are delighted with the feedback they receive. Mr A. Ainley Behaviour and Attendance Lead Hartlepool PRU and Home and Hospital Provision
Positive pathways has re-engaged our student who was struggling significantly in school throughout Y9 and Y10. We receive regular feedback and praise notifications; he even achieved a functional skills qualification within his first term. He has attended the provision all through lockdown and we are really pleased with the difference it has made. Mrs L. Arnold SENCO, Maths Teacher & Designated Teacher for Looked After Children Ingleby Manor School
46
Tel: 01642 607 464
Email: info@stockton.ac.uk
CONTACT US ADDRESS
CONTACT
The Skills Academy Marsh House Avenue Billingham Stockton-on-Tees TS23 3ET
Tel: 01642 607 464 Email: tracey.laycock@stockton.ac.uk www.stockton.ac.uk/skills-academy
You can find us off Marsh House Avenue in Billingham, near Bede Sixth Form College.
theskillsacad skillsacad
FOLLOW US
MARSH HOUSE AVENUE
RIEVAULX AVENUE
BEDE SIXTH FORM COLLEGE
WOLVISTON ROAD
A19 N
All the information in this guide is correct at the time of going to print. We reserve the right to make any necessary changes or withdraw courses. The Skills Academy Prospectus 21/22
47
Did you know? This Prospectus is 100% recyclable!* We have made a pledge to reduce our carbon footprint, improve sustainability, increase recycling and cut back on our general waste. That’s why, when you have finished with this guide we are asking you to pass it on to a friend or family member, recycle it, or return it to us at the freepost address below. Thank you! Freepost RTGX-KLYB-JYJS Stockton Riverside College Harvard Avenue Thornaby STOCKTON-ON-TEES TS17 6FB
* This prospectus is printed locally in Billingham! The laminate on the outside cover is biofriendly and the inside paper is part of FSC, which is sustainably sourced and made from 100% recyclable materials.
