| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The "Preparing for Life for SEND" program empowers school leavers with learning difficulties/disabilities by developing their independence and life skills through a tailored curriculum and hands-on experiences, including work placements, community engagement, and enrichment activities. It offers two pathways: "Skills for Independence" and "Pathway to Supported Employment," aiming to equip students for personal growth, employment opportunities, and a fulfilling future.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The program, "Preparing for Life for SEND," is designed for school leavers (aged 16-25) with Education Health Care plans (EHCPs) and learning difficulties/disabilities. Its objective is to build confidence and independence, developing skills in various areas to support participation in life, learning, and work. The course offers two pathways: "Skills for Independence" focusing on developing skills for independence and "Pathway to Supported Employment" which works towards Entry Level 2 in communication and personal skills, mapped to Preparing for Adulthood outcomes. The program aims to equip students with essential life and work skills. Learning is tailored to individual EHCP and Preparing for Adulthood outcomes to ensure personal progress and engagement. Transition support is provided through a taster program, tutorials, and EHCP reviews. The program includes a structured curriculum focusing on independence and personal development, communication and number skills, a tutorial program, enrichment activities, and work experience.
Outline:
The course content includes: communication skills, number skills, cooking & budgeting skills, wellbeing & health, personal & social development, community confidence, celebrating diversity, active citizenship (through social action projects), enterprise & employability skills. Learning combines classroom-based and practical activities, with community outings and college flat experiences to develop life skills. Students participate in enterprise activities (skills café project, market garden, cultural crafts) and social action projects with community groups and employers. Additional Learning Support is provided during learning, breaks, and lunch. The program is structured around a Programme of Study encompassing Independence and Personal Development skills, communication and number skills, a tutorial programme, enrichment, and work experience.
Assessment:
Students work towards an Entry level 2 Gateway Qualification, building a portfolio of evidence through written work, practical tasks, and observations. They also work towards meeting personal and EHCP targets, reviewed each term.
Teaching:
The teaching methods involve a mix of classroom-based learning and practical activities, community engagement, and work experience within the college and the wider community. The Additional Learning Support team provides support during learning, breaks, and lunch times. Learning is tailored to individual needs and EHCP outcomes.
Careers:
Successful completion can lead to further study or employment. The course aims to build confidence in independence, leading to rewarding and fulfilling lives. Potential progression pathways include the Supported Internship DFN Project SEARCH, supported volunteering, adult social care, independent living, or other community activities.
Other:
The course is a one-year, full-time program starting in September 2025, located in the David Hockney Building. The qualification gained is a GATEWAY Certificate in Enterprise (Entry 1). The course is delivered in partnership with an unnamed organization (indicated by blank spaces in the provided image). Work experience opportunities exist in the college café, enterprise projects, and community placements with local partners.
Bradford College is a major further and higher education institution in Bradford, West Yorkshire, England, with a history dating back to 1832, when it was established as the Bradford Mechanics Institute. It serves around 25,000 students, offering a broad range of full-time and part-time courses at different levels, from introductory programs to postgraduate degrees.
Academic Offerings:
- Further Education: The college provides T-Levels, vocational qualifications, and apprenticeships, equipping students with hands-on skills for employment.
- Higher Education: With one of the largest higher education provisions among further education colleges in England, Bradford College offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, as well as professional courses.
- Flexible Learning: Courses are available in various formats, including academic, professional, and vocational pathways, ensuring accessibility for school leavers, adult learners, and working professionals.
Facilities & Industry Connections:
- The college operates across six campuses, each designed to support career-focused learning with modern facilities tailored to industry standards.
- It collaborates with employers and industry partners to ensure that programs meet workforce demands, helping students gain practical skills and real-world experience.
- Students benefit from work placements, apprenticeships, and career development services, enhancing their employability in competitive job markets.
Community & Student Support:
- Bradford College is committed to inclusive education, supporting a diverse student body with personalized guidance, financial aid, and career counseling.
- It offers programs for adults returning to education, providing opportunities for career advancement or skill development.
With a strong reputation in further and higher education, Bradford College continues to empower students by offering career-driven courses, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong industry connections.
