The Tier 3 Work Preparation programme is designed for students aged 16-24 with Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs) to help them develop key employability skills and to build self-reliance. Learners will attend college four days a week in small groups, supported by a class teacher and Learning Support Assistants. The fifth day is set aside for independent, external work experience, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world settings. The curriculum focuses on Preparing for Adulthood and incorporates each learner’s EHCP outcomes, including English and Maths at levels ranging from Entry Level to GCSE. The course also emphasises building confidence, social skills, and employability.
What you'll learn
The following skills are covered:
- English and maths skills (from Entry Level to GCSE)
- Employability skills, including workplace readiness and job applications
- Confidence-building and social skills
- Independent living skills to enhance self-reliance
- Real-world experience through external work placements
How you'll learn and be assessed
Learners will attend college four days a week in small groups, supported by a teacher and Learning Support Assistants. The curriculum is personalised and designed around each learner’s EHCP outcomes. The fifth day is dedicated to external work experience, providing learners with opportunities to practise their employability skills independently. Progress is tracked through maths and English qualifications, as well as personalised targets set for each learner.
Progression
On completing this programme, learners may progress to:
- Preparing for Supported Internships (for learners needing additional support before transitioning to the workplace)
- Supported Internships (for learners ready to access supported employment)
- Foundation Level-learning (for learners who have developed the appropriate independence and academic skills)
Progression routes will be explored during annual reviews and aligned with each learner’s EHCP outcomes.
Entry requirements
This programme is suitable for learners with EHCPs who are looking to develop employability skills and independence. Suitability will be assessed by the course leader and SEND team based on academic ability, achievable progression routes, tolerance to the learning environment, and individual behaviour, nurture, and support needs.
Additional information
Transition programmes are available to help learners smoothly move from school to college, with taster days or regular visits to familiarise them with the environment. For more information, please contact course lead Jess Sachania – Jess.Sachania@ActivateLearning.ac.uk
