Life Skills Progression Pathways

Life Skills Progression Pathways programmes are available to people who need to develop their Personal Social Development skills and are aged 16-25. Programmes are offered at Cheltenham, Coleford and Gloucester campus. Students learn in small groups of 6 - 8 with high levels of support and guidance offered by a Personal Tutor, Teaching Assistant, and where required a Learner Support Assistant (individual support). All students will have an individual learning plan (ILP) involving individual specific targets, as well as group activities. The aim of the programme is to promote learners' communication and social interaction skills, confidence building, and English and Mathematic skills where appropriate. With the overall long term view of securing better self awareness, self advocacy and ultimately - better quality of life. The curriculum follows a personalised approach: 1. Guidance and help for transition into College involving other agencies as required 2. Initial assessment carried out in a supportive manner with student's needs in mind 3. High to moderate levels of support provided throughout the programme 4. English and Mathematics is fully embedded in the learning to promote reading, writing, speaking and listening and number skills 5. Individual targets are discussed, negotiated and set with the students 6. Regular pastoral support can be offered throughout the day 7. Review and assessment take place throughout the programme 8. Close communication regarding progress is maintained with families/carers/other agencies throughout the year 9. Transition onto another course or out of college is supported and includes other agencies

The programme also may offer a short residential experience with a high ratio of support. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in day excursions and other external learning activities

There are no formal entry requirements. Each student will be invited to attend a Transition Programme where their needs and suitability will be assessed. Students usually come from specialist schools, or from specific provision in mainstream schools or supported accommodation. We welcome direct enquires from parents and/or guardians.

Students have a chance to progress onto: 1. More Independent Living options 2. Higher Level courses (Volunteering or Vocational Pathways) 3. Other programmes within the School of Foundation Studies 4. Community provision

Overview of achievements for Life Skills Pathway 2011-2012 -This course has an excellent history of success and for 2011-12 we had 98% of our students complete and achieve their qualifications. Student Survey November 2012 Feedback from students is extremely positive and some of this includes: -100% of students stated that staff at College respond to their views -98% of students said that the teaching on their course is good -98% of students agreed that their course is well organised and ran smoothly -98% of students said that they feel safe travelling to and from college -98% of students stated that they would recommend the College to another person

James has been at college for two years having joined our Life Skills Foundation programme in 2011. During his first year James was allocated a 1 to 1 support worker to help with his transition from school to college and to support in class sessions. After completing his first year, and making great progress in his independence, James returned to join our Life Skills Horizon group (2012-13). This programme built on his experiences and challenges of the previous year. James has made such good progress this year that he no longer requires his 1 to 1 support and has continued improving his confidence and communication skills. By doing so this has enabled him to take full advantage of his own decision making and participate fully in all aspects of college life. James will be returning to college in September 2013 to join our Adult Transitions programme, where he will have the opportunity to further explore and develop personal care, independent living and community access skills.

Please contact the College on 0845 155 2020 for further details