Foundation Studies (SEND)
Our Foundation Studies Programmes provides ambitious, purposeful pathways for learners with a range of learning difficulties and/or disabilities. Our carefully constructed curriculum responds to learners' varying starting points, needs, interests and aspirations, enabling them to build knowledge, confidence, independence and the skills they need to thrive.
With clear routes and appropriate levels of challenge, learners make meaningful progress towards their individual goals and are prepared for successful next steps in adulthood, employment, further study and wider life. Every learner is supported to develop their strengths, overcome barriers and achieve their potential.
What you'll study
Foundation Studies has a carefully designed curriculum, aimed at supporting learners to discover their strengths, develop confidence and achieve their ambitions. Each learner will follow a personalised pathway within the curriculum, depending on their individual starting point, needs, interest and aspirations. All learners have Personal Development Outcomes set throughout the year to support progression. In Foundation Studies, a holistic approach is vital in facilitating personal, social and emotional development as well as academic progress.
Our programmes are designed around Preparing for Adulthood Outcomes (PfA), which focuses on:
- employment
- independent living
- community inclusion
- health
Each full-time course is three days per week and each weeks timetable will include:
- vocational main aim sessions (your main qualification)
- maths and English sessions
- work-related learning
- a tutorial session with their allocated Personal Tutor
Lessons will be a combination of practical and theory-based learning.
Where you'll study
Foundation Studies is based at both our Willerby Grove, Peterlee and Houghall, Durham City campuses, with each campus offering different exciting vocational opportunities.
Our Willerby Grove, Peterlee Campus is more suited to those interested in subjects such as IT, Art or Construction, while our Houghall, Durham City Campus is more suited to learners of land-based topics such as Agriculture, Horticulture, Animal Management and Floristry. Courses within Foundation include elements of the appropriate vocational subjects at each site.
Supported Internship Programme
Our Supported Internship Programme is for young people aged 16-24 with an EHC Plan who are ambitious about moving into employment but need additional support to achieve their goals.
We provide a personalised pathway into employment, with the support of an allocated Job Coach, combining a meaningful work placement with one day per week in College to continue to develop the skills, confidence and independence needed to thrive.
Interns will:
- develop the skills, knowledge and behaviours needed for employment
- gain real work experience with employers
- build confidence, resilience and independence through travel, training, budgeting and life skills
- develop their strengths, aspirations and employability with personalised support
Delivered across our Willerby Grove, Peterlee and Houghall, Durham City campuses, our Supported Internships empower young people to overcome barriers, achieve ambitious outcomes and take their next steps towards a successful and independent future.
Our approach
Foundation Studies staff work closely with parents, carers and external professionals to provide consistent, ambitious and individualised support that enables every learner to thrive. Through personalised targets, structured routines, effective communication and carefully planned transitions, we ensure students are well supported to make sustained progress.
Regular reviews and purposeful goal setting enables us to identify next steps, remove barriers and maximise outcomes, with a strong focus on developing learners' academic, social, personal and independent living skills, preparing them for their next steps and future aspirations.
