Course Overview
This course is designed for students with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), as well as those without an EHCP who have an identified learning difficulty, and who are seeking a supportive pathway into employment within Somerset Council.
It offers a personalised learning experience that empowers students to overcome barriers and realise their full potential. Whether you’re passionate about IT, working practically, in an office setting or exploring a future career in the council sector, this programme provides the skills, confidence and guidance needed to begin your professional journey.
With a strong focus on building independence through both onsite and remote learning, the programme goes beyond academic study by offering real-world opportunities for personal growth and career readiness.
Through our partnership with Discovery Supported Employment, students benefit from hands-on experience in various roles, supported by dedicated job coaches.
Students will also have access to diverse work placements, including opportunities within Somerset Council, digital and operational services, waste management, highways, parks, planning, environmental services, and community support. These placements provide valuable insight into how the council supports public services and large-scale operations.
Examples of professional areas students may gain experience in include:
- Business IT Support
- Administrative Assistant
- Digital support roles
- Highways
- Parks
- Planning
- Waste management.
Students will complete a minimum of16 hours of work placement each week within the digital industry, supported by Discovery job coaches. Alongside this, they will take part in onsite learning sessions and remote learning, including English and Maths, tutorials, and employability workshops.
Assessment Methods
Work placement progress will be monitored using a dedicated online platform as well as observations from job coaches and assessors; while Recognising and Recording Progress and Achievement (RARPA) will track overall progress through a learning journey portfolio.
Regular English and maths assessments ensure foundational skills are developed effectively, and where appropriate you may be entered into a GCSE English and/or maths qualification.
Progression Options
You could progress into paid employment or apprenticeship opportunities, providing further training and development aligned with specific career goals.
Entry Requirements
This course is designed for students with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), as well as those without an EHCP who have an identified learning difficulty.
Entry is subject to an EHCP consultation, and successful interview and 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.
