New Directions Route 1

This course is for students who are undecided about which direction to take and who do not have the qualifications to study a full level 1 course. The aim of this course is to help you to become more confident so you can go on to further courses or employment.

- Functional Skills Maths
- Functional Skills English
- Functional Skills ICT
- Skills Towards Enabling Progression Entry Level 3
- Vocational qualification in either: construction skills, motor vehicle maintenance, health and social care, child care, art and design, media, catering, and hair and beauty

Your tutor will work with you to set individual learning targets each term, and you will get feedback on your progress. You will be assessed through creating a folder of evidence for each subject. You will be assessed at a level that suits you. Functional Skills will be assessed through external examinations.

This is a one year full-time course which you attend three days a week. Learning will take place through a range of traditional classroom-based activities, practical hands-on learning, research activities, educational visits and team work. You will learn in small class sizes so you will get the support you need.

Functional skills, maths, English and ICT skills, a vocational qualification at entry level 3, and a certificate in skills towards enabling progression at entry level 3.

All applicants need to have an initial assessment in English and maths, have a successful interview, and attend a taster day to meet the team and other applicants. To be considered for a place on the course, you will have achieved some GCSE grades (eg. at school) or you’ll show that you can demonstrate English and maths levels E2/3 in your initial assessment.

On successful completion of the course you may move on to New Directions Route 2 or a full time Vocational Diploma at Level 1 Apprenticeship or employment.

Students learn in groups of 12 maximum, and support is available in each class to help everyone make progress. It’s a chance to learn with full support at a pace that suits you. You’ll build your skills and confidence in English, maths and ICT and develop personal and social skills that employers look for. You’ll also have hands-on learning in a vocational area of your choice.