Course Summary

Do you want to become more independent?

Pathway to Independence is a personalised programme for young people with learning difficulties and disabilities.

We will plan your programme with you, based on your own goals in life. You will learn and practise the skills that you need, so that you become more confident and more independent. Most of the lessons are practical.

You will have the support that you need in lessons, and also at break and lunch times.

Entry requirements

No qualifications are needed but you must want to develop your skills and become more independent.

You will have an interview to help us to find out more about what you want to do in the future, to understand your needs and to see if this is the right choice for you.

Course Content

We will plan your personalised programme with you. Every Pathway to Independence programme includes English and maths. You will also develop your social skills. The rest depends on what you want to learn.

You might do some:

• Cooking
• Shopping
• Travelling by bus
• Gardening
• Woodwork
• Projects in the local community
• Creative projects
• Working in a cafe

Most of your lessons will be practical. You will learn English and maths skills in this way too. 

How will I be assessed?

Your English, maths and practical skills will be assessed at the start of the year. Then you will plan your targets with your tutor.

You will check your progress towards your targets in every lesson. Your tutor will review your progress with you every half term.

When you have achieved a target, you will agree your next target with your tutor.

Are there any additional costs or specialist equipment required?

You will need a travel card or money for bus fares. You will be asked for a contribution to the costs of activities like cooking. You might also need to provide some personal safety equipment for your chosen activities.

If you are invited on any trips, you will be asked for a voluntary contribution.

What can I do after this course?

During the year, we will work with you to help you plan what you will do next. 

You might return for another year on Pathway to Independence, or maybe move on to another programme in the College.

Or you might be ready to leave College and use your new skills at home or in your community.