Programme Outline

The key focus of the Alternative Curriculum Programme is to support young people for whom full time education may not be appropriate. This could be due to a number of factors; they lack the drive or ambition to attend regularly, they have social or personal obstacles, which cannot be overcome by working exclusively with a likeminded peer group, or simply, they have made a positive choice about their future career route and wish to pursue this.

The programme in most cases lasts for one academic year, although some young people join in year ten and subsequently participate for two years. Students can join the programme at anytime during the year. The programme involves the student working with an employer for up to three days each week and attending school for two days. Whilst at their work experience it is hoped that the young person will develop the essential skills and attributes to further their chances of employment in the future. They will also have expressed an interest in working within the organisations specific occupational area where they are placed and therefore additionally benefit from learning and practicing the basic principles of that industry.

Whilst at school, students will have the opportunity to work to GCSEs or other related academic qualifications. In the workplace they will work towards a National Vocational Qualification in Employment Skills. The student will be visited in the workplace by an approved assessor to ensure the awarding body requirements are achieved.

There is no cost to the employer in terms of financial payment to the young person and all personal protective equipment is provided. However, it is critical that their immediate supervisor is available to provide an update of their progress and weekly attendance on an agreed basis.

For further information, please contact our office on 01709 586600.