High Needs

We offer a range of programmes for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities that are linked to the development of achieving a meaningful and productive life, with a ‘careers not courses’ purpose.

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.

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

    This pathway is designed as a multiple-year full-time study programme that supports learners with profound, complex and multiple disabilities.

    Personal Progression

    This is a programme aimed at students with severe or profound and multiple learning and physical difficulties.

    The main focus of learning is the development of communication and life and living skills, with a high level of support from trained staff.

    Students take part in sensory and creative activities and access the local community. Portfolios of evidence are gathered to support accredited work towards the City and Guilds Award, Certificate and Diploma in Personal Progress.

    Students are also assessed against departmental descriptors in Communication and Interaction, Life and Living Skills, Pathways to Employment and Personal Development.

    All students have individual short-term targets that help them to make progress towards these topics and their EHCP outcomes. Staff work with speech and language, AAC, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and dietary needs professionals to deliver individual programmes tailored to meet needs.

  • 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 Personal Development, Communication and Interaction, Life Skills, Employability and Essential Literacy and Numeracy Skills. Coursework units will vary each year depending on the previous qualification gained.

    Introductory (Entry 1)

    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 (Entry 2)

    This pathway is aimed at learners who 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 develop an understanding of further vocational opportunities. There will also be a focus on higher academic attainment and potential higher-level courses.

    Advanced (Entry 3)

    This pathway is for learners who 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

    A work-related course where the student completes a number of days of work experience in placements. We build the individual's life and living skills after college. This course also helps them progress to a supported internship, apprenticeship or mainstream vocational programme.