Foundation Studies – Pathway to Progression

Start Date: September 

This pathway is designed for students with a LD/SEN need who are looking to progress to full time college courses. Some students may already have GCSE’s. Class sizes are 10-12 students

Why choose Foundation Studies at Riverside College?
Foundation Studies is designed to help young people with learning difficulties, disabilities, or those who need extra support to transition into college.
We provide a safe and supportive environment where students can prepare for higher levels of study and adult life, helping them become valued members of the community.

What are the different Pathways in Foundation Studies?
Within Foundation Studies we have created three different pathways which enable every student to start college at the right level:
• Pathway to Independence
• Pathway to Mixed Options
• Pathway to Progression

What will I study on this course? 
Timetables include:
• One session per week with cross college subject teacher and Foundations Studies tutor.
• Subjects include:
> Business & IT, Hospitality and Catering and Construction.
• 2 weekly tutorials
• English and maths lessons (mostly accredited).
2/3 days in college

What to expect as a student in Foundation Studies?
Students will:
• Have a tailored timetable working to their own individual learning targets.
• Be in small class sizes with 1-2 Learning Support Workers in each session.
• Take part in two ‘off timetable’ activity weeks per year including guest speakers to help build confidence and resilience.
• Have access to the job coach to help with gaining work experience in their second year.
• Have access to activities and the college canteen during the one hour lunchtime. (Staff are on duty during lunchtime and can escort students to the canteen if needed).
• Be able to access all aspects of college life including free college buses and the college bursary. Click here for more information.

What are the enrichment activities on offer in college?
Students in Foundation Studies have the opportunity to take part in a wide range of enrichment activities during
their time at college. These will take place both in college and offsite and can include forestry, art, drama, sport, games and hair & beauty.
In the second year students will have the opportunity to attend the NCS residential.

Transition to College?
Before you start at Foundation Studies, we will help to prepare you for starting college with various trips and visits.
During this time, you will meet your teachers and the support team in Foundation Studies and you will also become more familiar with the
college and facilities.

What will this course lead on to?
This course is aimed at students wishing to progress onto a full time course at Riverside College and Cronton Sixth Form.

How will I be assessed?
Your teachers and support staff will continually observe and review your progress, as soon as targets are achieved, new ones will be set so that you continue to develop and build on previous learning.

Are there any costs associated with the course?
Students are expected to be organised and arrive at class with basic file, paper and stationery. Trips and visits may incur additional costs depending on destination; however, affordability is a key factor in decision making.

Some work placement activities may specify that work based PPE is required. Some students may be eligible for financial support to buy this equipment.

Facilities:
All lessons take place in fully equipped classrooms with access to PCs and smart devices. Students can access course materials electronically from home.

What Foundation Studies students at Riverside College say…
“This course gave me the confidence to apply for jobs. I had experience that I could talk about to show how I could do the job”