High Needs

The focus of our foundation learning programmes is linked to the development of all our learners in achieving a meaningful and productive life. The college intent is to develop programmes of study with a ‘careers not courses’ purpose. We offer a range of courses for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities.

Please call us on 01635 845000 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to discuss the most appropriate programme and pathway for your young person.

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Our Programmes and Pathways

In summary, each programme has the same intent but is designed to meet the needs of each learner; an individualised approach but within a team setting. Each student is part of a pathway which links to building their independence, employability and academic attainment allowing them to progress year on year until they can have a meaningful and fulfilled purpose. The pathways are designed to support progression and be able to connect, focus and evolve. Working closely with parents, local authority, British Association of Supported Employment (BASE) and other local providers Newbury College are currently re-designing the curriculum ready for first delivery September 2020.

Foundation Pathways

When joining Newbury College, applicants will be assessed and offered the most appropriate programme and pathway to meet their individual needs and goals.

They will be supported throughout their time with us and be encouraged to progress through the different levels, where possible, to challenge themselves and meet their true potential.

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  • Connect

    Programme Connect

    There are two pathways within the Connect programme. These pathways are designed as a multiple-year full-time study programme that is designed to support learners with profound, complex and multiple disabilities. All students have support throughout the college day and follow a modulated and individualised approach.

    Personal Progression

    The weekly timetable includes music, shopping for ingredients, cooking, IT, gardening, drama and art. Work-related activity such as volunteering opportunities and understand the world of work. These activities formalise the learner’s journey and allow them to build personal confidence within the study programme. This is achieved through their academic teaching, led by a designated course leader and working with Job Coaches, who will introduce aspects of the skills needed to develop ready for future employment opportunities. This study programme is not aimed at ensuring the learner is work ready but is there to inspire and develop self-esteem and confidence for future opportunity.

    Community Progression

    The core aim of this pathway is to help learners progress from the Personal Connect study programme. On this programme, the students access community-related learning courses and develop skills in working with others and accessing local amenities. This includes going into town, meeting new people, and learning about recreational activities and employment opportunities. Students will also study Maths and English and participate in work experience activities, working closely with the Employer Engagement Team and their Course Leader.

  • Focus

    Programme Focus

    This is a study programme where students begin a journey of up to three years and develop skills in independent living and employability. The programme covers topics such as healthy eating, enterprise activities and meaningful work experience.

    Introductory

    This pathway is aimed at learners who demonstrate they have the aptitude to build on current learning allowing for an understanding of the ways of work. The learner will be focussing on wellness and positive life choices and will also be working closely with their course leader and the Employer Engagement team in preparing for future work opportunities and introduction to vocational pathways.

    Intermediate

    This pathway is aimed at learners that have achieved or demonstrated elements of independence through previous learning and can be introduced to more activities that prepare them for the world of work and enhanced independence. At this point there will be an element of work experience embedded within the study programme and learners will be developed in understanding vocational opportunities further. There will also be a focus on higher academic attainment and potential higher-level courses.

    Advanced

    This pathway is for learners that can move into a study programme with more work experience at its core. The advanced programme is focussing on the learner’s skills in preparation for independent living and meaningful employment.

  • Engage

    Programme Engage

    This is a study programme where the focus is on the final preparation for employment or mainstream study. It is aimed at the learner who, with support, can move into the world of work and meaningful employment, or, be able to progress onto a mainstream study programme linked to their chosen vocational pathway. The pathways are linked to supported internship, Apprenticeship or Mainstream Vocational.