Christmas Closure Information

Our campuses close on Friday 20th December and re-open on Thursday 2nd January 2025 for the Christmas Break.

Students will return to timetabled lessons on Monday 6th January 2025.

For information on term dates and enquiries please visit our information page using the button below.

Foundation Studies and Supported Learning Courses

Our Foundation Studies and Supported Learning courses are delivered by tutors with a wealth of experience and their professional expertise is valued by our students.

Within the Foundation and Supported Learning Area we aim to equip all students with the skills, experience and confidence required to achieve individual goals for learning, life and work, and to achieve successful progression.

A holistic approach to learning is undertaken which seeks to develop all students ‘as a whole’, ensuring that learning is social, emotional and academic. The curriculum centres around six themes which are at the ‘heart’ of all our programmes. These themes are:

Independence
We strive to empower students to progress to a higher level of independence within all aspects of themselves and to live up to their true potential.
Employability
We strive to develop our students understanding of the world of work and to equip them with the knowledge and skills to make informed choices about their chosen career pathway.
Vocational skills
Through a blend of accredited and non-accredited study options we strive to provide students with challenging learning opportunities which support academic progression.
Community
We strive to expand upon students understanding of the world around them; equipping them to be responsible, respectful, active citizens who contribute positively to society.
Personal Growth
We strive to develop students into confidence, curious, respectful, resilient and ambitious young people.
Well-being
We strive to support students to flourish in their education journey by developing the knowledge and skills required to make healthy and safe choices that will enhance their own and others’ health and wellbeing.

STEPS Programmes

Our STEPS programmes focus on helping young people with individual learning needs to make a successful transition to Further Education, adult life and the world of work.

A student’s starting point on STEPS is informed by their learning and progression goals, and assessment of support needs. The curriculum offer extends from Entry level to Level 1 and includes a wide range of exciting subjects.

DESTINATION

  • Paid employment
  • Supported employment
  • Vocational programme at Level 1/Level 2
  • Apprenticeship
  • Increased independance



STEPS 1

For students with complex learning difficulties and/or disabilities who require a high level of additional support.

STEPS 2

For students who aspire to increase their independence but wish to continue their education in a highly supportive environment.

STEPS 3

For students who wish to develop their skills for independence and employment, and work towards achievement of personal goals.

STEPS 4

For students with additional needs who require supported learning at Entry Level/ Level 1 before progressing to vocational study, employment and/or an apprenticeship.

Transition Programmes

ESOL Stepping Up (16 – 19 year olds)Level: E, 1, 2
Progression StudiesLevel 1
Skills to SucceedLevel 1
Supported InternshipLevel 1

Alternate Year 11

Foundation Studies and Learning Support programmes at Colchester

STEPS Programmes

STEPS 1 – Learning for Living
STEPS 2 – Supported Studies
STEPS 3 – Preparation for Work
STEPS 4 – Career Transition

Transition Programmes

ESOL Stepping Up (16 – 19 year olds)Level: E, 1, 2
Progression StudiesLevel 1
Skills to SucceedLevel 1
Supported InternshipLevel 1

Alternate Year 11

Foundation Studies and Learning Support programmes at Braintree

Skills to SucceedLevel 1
STEPS 2 – Supported Studies
STEPS 3 – Preparation for Work
STEPS 4 – Career Transition

What our students say - Skills for EnterpriseLucius Sayles
What our students say - Career TransitionGracey Peachey