Course Overview
This programme is aimed at meeting the needs of individuals with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD) and Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
The aim of the programme is to support the transition from school, through college, to adult life. You will have the opportunity to develop your communication and life skills. This is achieved by offering a differentiated curriculum designed to meet your individual needs. You will have the chance to make choices in class-based and real-life experiences such as the college restaurant, Learning Resource Centre and out in the community.
You will be supported by highly experienced, skilled staff in a specialised learning environment. Your tutor and the learning support team will work with you to create an individualised programme to help you to build on individual skills enabling you to become confident in the wider community. We offer individualised varied forms of communication to meet all needs, alongside assistive technology to enable you to develop in a way that suits you.
A multi-sensory approach is used in learning situations which can include:
- Cooking
- Interactive Communication
- Life Skills
- Horticulture
- Community Access
- Sensory Learning – Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC).
Assessment Methods
You will take part in an initial assessment to establish your starting point and, with support, agree your individual targets.
You will be assessed through continuous one-to-one observation and by building a portfolio of evidence using photographs, witness statements and video. Your progress will be monitored using personalised targets linked to your EHCP through a learner journey portfolio.
Progression Options
You may have the opportunity to progress further within the Choices for Independence programme. You will be prepared to move into adult life and in partnership with your circle of support transition into the community.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must have an (EHCP) and the ability to engage in learning through an inclusive and purpose-built learning environment, with support. Entry is also subject to an EHCP consultation, successful interview and completion of an initial assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can apply directly on any of the UCS College Group websites, whether you wish to study at Bridgwater College, Cannington College, Strode College, or Taunton College. Simply use our “Find a Course” feature and follow the on-screen instructions – be sure to have your important information to hand.
We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.
The Student Experience Team can mentor and signpost students who are struggling with a range of issues that are negatively impacting their day-to-day life. The Student Experience Team works closely with the Safeguarding & Lifestyle Teams to promote proactive wellbeing enrichment sessions. The team can refer on to counselling when appropriate.
We provide top-quality workshops and teaching areas across our Colleges for subjects such as art, design and media, hair and beauty, catering, automotive engineering and construction. You can review our campus facilities by navigating to the “College Life” section of our websites.
For us, the success of our students always comes first. By investing in our built environment, we are investing in your future.
All of our students will have a personal tutor to support them with their academic progress and personal development. The tutorial programme consists of 1:1 support, group tutorials and guest speakers, plus targeted online resources which complement the UCS College Group Advantage scheme.
The Safeguarding Team can offer advice and guidance on anything that may be affecting your young person and their studies – no problem is too big or too small!
Please email our Safeguarding team at staysafe@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk. If you query is urgent, please come to the College Reception and ask to speak to a Safeguarding Officer.
If you cannot find an answer to your question in this FAQ section, you can ask us a question by visiting our Contact Us page.
