Step Up is a course for learners who have few or no GCSEs. This may be due to a disrupted school education, home tutoring or some additional needs that prevented achievement. Learning support is available in and outside of the classroom. The Step Up programme has the additional benefit of having a dedicated Student Support Officer available throughout the week.
Step Up is a pathway emphasising personalised learning programmes to support progression on to vocational programmes, apprenticeships or employment.
Students can choose from the following subject routes accredited through the National Open College Network. Customer Relations and Cookery are available in Level 1 Diploma, Certificate or Award sizes and Childcare Development is offered at E3 Diploma, Certificate or Award sizes, all of which give learners the skills to progress.
Other subjects areas will be considered dependent on applications
The qualification is credit based and made up from a range of vocational units in specific areas and a range of core curriculum areas. These provide opportunities for you to develop skills in literacy and numeracy, ICT, employability, learning to learn and personal development.There is an element of work experience on the Cookery and Customer relations programmes.
Literacy and numeracy and ICT will be delivered in Functional Skills sessions alongside these qualifications. You will have a group tutorial and the timetable will typically comprise of 2.5 full days at Somerset College.
A willingness to learn, and overcome previous negative experiences.
These include portfolio building and direct observation of practical skills. Functional Skills are assessed through end tests.
Your personal tutor will check your assessment progress to ensure you are meeting your individual goals.
You may progress directly into employment or become an apprentice, or you could go on to further vocational programmes.
An ability to work without disrupting other people.
Respond appropriately to reasonable requests and the desire to learn.
Respect for teachers/other staff/peers/general public.
100% attendance and good timekeeping.
Free to 16-19 year olds.
There is a materials fee of £50.
Fees for over 19 year olds apply.
For further guidance and advice contact the Careers team on 01823 366 331, or email enquiries@somerset.ac.uk
or alternatively please ring the Step Up Personal Tutor team: Jane on: 01823 366682