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Courses for learners with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND)

Foundation Learning: includes many highly successful, high-quality, programmes for learners aged 16-24 with SEND.

Our ethos is to put the learner first in everything that we do, and this is extended to all of our students. Over the last few years, we have created specialist facilities for learners on the autism spectrum and learners with profound and complex learning difficulties/disabilities to provide our students with the best possible environment to support their learning. 

Foundation Learning is for students with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND) and barriers to learning. Weston College is a highly supportive, ambitious and inclusive environment for all of its students, and we pay particular attention to the development of personalised curriculum.

We create an individual programme of study, which considers each student’s needs and aspirations. We take a holistic and learner-focused approach to ensuring that our students’ experiences, achievements and outcomes are outstanding and sustainable. We celebrate each one of our students, and encourage them to reach their potential, enabling independence through innovative programmes.

All students on a Foundation Learning programme will have an assigned personal tutor who will work with the student to co-create their timetable.

Study programmes are diverse, with flexibility to support learners to work towards their intended outcomes and aspirations, including:

  • A range of vocational, creative and sporting options
  • Personal and social development
  • Employability skills
  • Work placements
  • Independent living
  • Maths and English Development.
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Level 1

Aspirations

1 Year
Sep 2024
WESTON BAY HOTEL
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Aspirations is a programme of study specifically developed for 17 – 24 year olds on the autism spectrum, delivered at Weston Bay. Many of the students on the course already have academic or vocational qualifications, but have found accessing employment, higher education or independent living very difficult. Aspirations allows students to exp...

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Level 1

Extension Studies

1 Year
Sep 2024
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
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The aim of the programme is to support learners with moderate learning difficulties, specific learning difficulties and/ or social emotional and mental health difficulties, to progress into employment, higher level courses and/or independent living. We will work with learners to help them recognise and value their strengths, while developing a...

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Level 1

Preparation for Life

1 Year
Sep 2024
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
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The aim of the Preparation for Life curriculum area is for learners with a range of Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) to develop independence and successfully transition into adulthood. The programme aims to provide a differentiated and individualised approach to each learner’s study programme at college in order to work t...

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Level 1

Sensory Learning

10 Weeks
Sep 2024
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
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A purpose-built, safe, self-contained, specialist facility at Weston College’s Knightstone Campus for students with Profound and Complex Learning Disabilities (PCLD). Where appropriate to the individual, students will also be able to access the many other student facilities across the College, including the library and Bistro. The provision ...

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Level 1

Supported Internship: Into Work

1 Year
Sep 2024
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
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Supported Internships provide an individualised programme of study for 16 to 24 year olds with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) with an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP), who want to move into employment and need extra support to do so. The programme has one primary aim which is to: wherever possible support young people t...

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WHAT IS FOUNDATION LEARNING?

Our Foundation Learning programmes are courses that offer a flexible curriculum that enhances our students' learning experience and provides them the strong 'foundations' that will benefit them as they prepare for adult life towards outcomes for working life, independent living and good health.

The inclusive programmes are delivered by our professionally qualified and specialist SEND staff who aim to instil self-belief and confidence in our students. The tutorial element is an integral part of the programme’s philosophy, encompassing the development of individual strategies, empowering learners to take responsibility for their own learning. This learner-centred approach uses the College setting to provide pathways to further study.

Why study Foundation Learning at Weston College?

Our Foundation Learning programmes have a 100% success rate.

At Weston College, students have access to a wide range of excellent, high-quality vocational experiences, specialist resources and accommodation across all Weston College campuses, giving learners the opportunity to learn in appropriate contexts, for example, the hairdressing and beauty salons, Grove Restaurant, Badgworth Arena, Sports Centre and the professional kitchens.

The programmes of study are further enhanced throughout the year with opportunities for learners with SEND to participate in additional sporting events, overnight and week-long residential stays, educational visits, lunch-time activities and the end-of-year celebration events.

Ofsted

Comments from Ofsted, 2013

"Learners with learning or physical disabilities make outstanding progress and can live more independent and enriched lives through the support, education and training they receive at college."

"Learners with identified additional learning support needs are supported well through differentiated classroom activities"

HOW TO APPLY

Thank you for your interest in applying for one of our courses for students with SEND.

Please click on the courses above and apply online using the Apply button.

If you are unable to complete your application online please email SENDadmissions@weston.ac.uk.

If you need any assistance completing your application form, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 01934 411175.

Once we receive the application, we will make some preliminary enquiries to your school and to Learning Partnership West to find out a little more about you.

We will then invite you in for an interview where we can discuss the best options for you and tell you more about what you can expect from the course.

When you come to your interview, please make sure you bring the completed forms which will be sent to you with your interview invite letter, along with information on your medical history (such as GP name and address and any medication you are taking), your expected qualifications and any certificates you have.

OUR SEND VIDEOS

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Hopefully, you found the information you were looking for in this section, however if you still have some queries, please take a look at the frequently asked questions below, or give us a call on 01934 411 575.

Students are assessed on an individual basis to determine their support needs, and a support programme will be developed if appropriate. Group sizes are deliberately kept small to enable the tutor and support worker(s) in each session to target the learning needs of each student. Individual support will also be provided outside of the classroom environment to include work placements, breakfast and lunch club and break times.

Students should discuss their concerns with their tutor or a member of the Specialist Support team. All of our staff offices operate an open-door policy so students are more than welcome to drop in at any time.

Our Foundation Learning courses are all offered for an initial one-year period which will be reviewed towards the end of the year. Students studying on Extension Studies may be able to continue for more than one year if deemed appropriate. Students studying on Preparation for Work and Life may be able to continue for a further two years if it is deemed appropriate.

All students will take part in a group tutorial where you will learn about various aspects of personal and social development. All students also attend lessons in ICT, English and Maths, but, these lessons are catered to each student’s ability and group sizes are small so you can learn in the best possible environment.

All students can then freely choose from a variety of vocational subjects.

Yes, all students get an opportunity to go on a residential and there are also many day trips organised throughout the year. Students may be able to get financial support to pay for these trips through the bursary scheme.

Many learners may choose to go out into town at lunchtime with their friends which is absolutely fine, but some learners who don’t feel confident going out can have lunch in the Bistro. Here, there are members of staff to support you and there are also a number of lunchtime activities students can get involved in.

Students who require support at break times and lunchtimes will receive it, including support to enable access to the various lunchtime activities and enrichment opportunities.

For students on the Preparation for Work and Life course, we aim for you to achieve an Asdan qualification in either Employability, Personal and Social Development or Personal Progress depending on how long you stay with us and what is appropriate in working towards your agreed outcomes.

For students on Extension Studies, we aim for you to achieve an NOCN Step up qualification which is a very flexible qualification, enabling you to work towards units in a number of different subject areas.

Students on both courses will achieve NCFE functional skills qualifications in English, maths and ICT where it is appropriate.

Many students will purchase a termly bus pass when they come to enroll which is offered at a reduced price. However, for some students, getting to College on public transport can be really difficult and some students are eligible for North Somerset’s Home to College transport scheme. For more information on this, please see our transport information page.

Students will be provided with many of the relevant materials for their classes which will include paper, craft supplies for art, protective clothing and wood for DIY, food for budget cookery or anything else you might need which is relevant to your session. Students will however be asked to pay £25 at the beginning of the year to help cover the costs of this and will be asked to bring in a pen and folder.

All students will be allocated a personal tutor and will have a tutorial at least once-a-week but some students might need them more frequently. The tutorial time will be agreed between the student and tutors at the start of the course. Of course, if there is anything you need to urgently talk to your tutor about, they will be more than happy to see you at any time. The tutorial programme is an integral part of the students programme.

Based at Knightstone campus with use of specialist facilities across the Weston College campuses.

Moving onto Further Education is a big step for all young people, particularly for those with SEND. At Weston College, we arrange thorough and individualised programmes to ensure the transition is seamless. Our transition programmes could include meetings with the learner, parents, carers, school staff and external agencies, to establish a close liaison and a partnership approach:

- School or specialist provider observations
- Attending school review meetings and multi-agency meetings
- Planning a personalised transition programme with the learner
- Familiarisation days and taster sessions
- Collaboration with relevant agencies
- Access to Entry and Level 1 Link programmes as appropriate
- School visits
- Specialist support
- Initial Needs Assessments to gather full information
- Diagnostic assessments

Transition periods can last from a month to as much as a year. Each programme is arranged and agreed on an individual basis with each school, specialist provider, or external organisation. It is our experience that this planned transition into College plays a significant role in learners being able to access Weston College successfully.

Similarly, transition programmes support learners to transition out of College and into the next phase of their development - further training, higher education, supported or paid employment, and independent living.

Some learners may be entitled to free transport to College provided by the local authority, if they're under 19 years old and live more than three miles from Weston College.

For learners over 19 they can apply for the Vacant Seat Payment Scheme (VSPS) which provides access to this transport at a concessionary price. VSPS is not guaranteed and learners may have to be transported to a pick-up point. It costs around £450 a year.

Transport options are discussed during the application and interview process. Weston College liaises closely with the local authority and parents and carers are kept up to date with arrangements, priority learners commencing their course.

By bus - discounted bus travel

Learners who can travel independently can buy a bus pass (£70 a term) which allows them to travel five days a week, within North Somerset and Bristol.

Learners should bring a folder and stationery with them when they start college. Lockers are provided for files and equipment. They can buy drinks, snacks and hot meals from the College Bistro or alternatively bring a packed lunch.

Foundation Learning programmes encourage learners with SEND to take part in challenging sports events, overnight and week-long residential stays, educational visits, lunchtime activities, and end-of-year shows. Overnight stays cost between £35-£50, and summer residentials (3-4 nights) cost between £150-£300, depending on chosen activities.

These additional enrichment activities are real confidence boosters and, so far, every full-time learner has said they enjoyed their additional trips and residentials.

Learners can apply for the bursary to get help with costs, if their household income is below £32,000 a year. We can help your son or daughter apply for the bursary over the summer or in September when their course starts. If successful, they'll receive money once a term, and have their Spring and Summer term bus pass paid for. Learners from families with an income below £11,999 a year will also get help with buying lunch.

Your application will need to be accompanied by evidence of your household income (letters from the Inland Revenue, pay slips, or bank statements etc).

"Learners with learning or physical disabilities make outstanding progress and can live more independent and enriched lives through the support, education and training they receive at college."

"Learners with identified additional learning support needs are supported well through differentiated classroom activities"

Learners are invited to interview with one of the Foundation Learning team. Many learners who attend our Foundation Learning provision have an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) and we work with the Local Authority through a formal consultation process to ensure we have everything needed to help you succeed on a course.

We work with all learners to identify positive pathways into further educational programmes, work opportunities or into packages of support provided locally that will ensure you make a smooth transition into adult life.

Details of your son or daughter’s Personal Tutor will be given to you at the beginning of the year, along with their email address and telephone number. Our tutors do try to keep in regular contact with all parents as a matter of course and many parents like to use a communication book which the tutors can write in for the students to take home with them. Regular parent / carer meetings will take place throughout the year.

WHAT OUR STUDENTS SAY

Student writing in class
Hayden
My favourite moment on the course was attending the Foundation Learning Football Academy. I love football and I love getting to do it in college – the 3G pitch is amazing! The staff are very supportive and helped me develop the skills I needed to successfully start work experience at the Strawberry Line, where I am now in paid employment.
Studied:

Preparation for Life

Toby
Toby
Weston College Has Changed My Life for The Better in Nearly Every Way Possible. When I First Started, I Was at My Lowest Point, But the College Has Given Me, Confidence, Happiness, Friends And A Direction. I Cannot Thank the Staff Enough Forever Changing My Life For The Better
Studied:

Into Work

LATEST NEWS

learner playing football

<p paraeid="{cc057e29-ad93-43f0-9a48-d78f66eaa46f}{199}" paraid="2022617493">Weston College's Foundation Learning Team is thrilled to announce that it has been honoured with the prestigious <a href="https://www.aoc.co.uk/">Association of Colleges</a> Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion in Sport Award. This recognition acknowledges the college's unwavering commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in its sports programmes, enabling learners with a diverse range of barriers to learning to thrive and achieve their aspirations.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{cc057e29-ad93-43f0-9a48-d78f66eaa46f}{217}" paraid="1826592258"><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/cours… Learning</a> at Weston College specialises in providing personalised study programmes for learners with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), including those with severe, profound, and complex learning difficulties, social, emotional and mental health, physical impairments and barriers to learning. Many of these learners have faced previous educational setbacks and require specialist support to prepare for higher level courses, employment and independent living. The college's highly inclusive curriculum design fosters self-esteem, confidence, and self-awareness among learners, empowering them to overcome societal barriers and actively participate in managing their own challenges.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{fe87f1ea-78fb-4ad9-ab66-d7e13e7a4295}{24}" paraid="1587210646">Within this specialist area of Weston College, sport and enrichment activities play a pivotal role and the positive impact is evident through a wide range of learner led achievements and initiatives. The college's partnership with <a href="https://somersetcricketfoundation.org/">Somerset Cricket Foundation</a> has facilitated coaching packages in table cricket, promoting access to cricket for all. Recently, the College’s Sports Academy emerged victorious in the County championships of table cricket, underscoring the success of this collaboration. Additionally, the College’s Football Academy represented the South West region in the Association of Colleges (AoC) Sport National finals, becoming unbeaten champions and contributing to the South West's winning of the esteemed Wilkinson Sword Trophy. These accomplishments reflect the Academy's dedication, teamwork, and commitment to fair play.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{fe87f1ea-78fb-4ad9-ab66-d7e13e7a4295}{98}" paraid="571213008">Beyond competitive tournaments, the Foundation Learning team actively participates in the South-West pan-disability league, fostering teamwork, physical literacy, and inclusivity. The college's sports programmes transcend boundaries and provides opportunities for learners from socially deprived backgrounds who may face financial constraints in accessing sporting activities within their communities. By offering accessible and inclusive sports opportunities, Weston College empowers learners to develop their skills, pursue their sporting interests, and experience the life-changing benefits of engaging in physical activities.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{fe87f1ea-78fb-4ad9-ab66-d7e13e7a4295}{126}" paraid="1109480144">Weston College's commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion extends across all provision, with a whole college approach that ensures the diverse needs of learners are addressed in all aspects of college life. The coaching methodology follows the principles of open games, parallel games, and disability games, with sports coaches collaborating closely with Foundation Learning SEND specialists to deliver inclusive coaching sessions adapted to individual learners' requirements. Learners and staff actively promote social inclusion, problem-solving skills, and communication through physical education, fostering resilience and cohesion within teams.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{fe87f1ea-78fb-4ad9-ab66-d7e13e7a4295}{156}" paraid="818570379">Principal and CEO of Weston College, Sir Paul Phillips CBE, expressed his pride in the remarkable accomplishments of learners and staff: "Our success in the Association of Colleges Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion in Sport Award is a testament to the unwavering dedication, teamwork, and celebration of diversity that underpin our sports programmes. We are proud to create a safe and inclusive environment where all learners can flourish, regardless of their background or barriers. This recognition further motivates us to continue evolving and embedding equality, diversity, and inclusion into all that we do."&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{fe87f1ea-78fb-4ad9-ab66-d7e13e7a4295}{178}" paraid="1602225090">Weston College Foundation Learning's outstanding achievements in promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion through sports exemplify the positive impact of inclusive education and sporting opportunities. The college remains committed to creating brighter futures, nurturing talent, and ensuring that everyone can access and enjoy the benefits of sports.&nbsp;</p>

Learners, parents and teacher outside Knightstone campus

<p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/cours… Learning</a>, our specialist provision for learners with SEND, introduced the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme as a curriculum choice for learners in 2019.</p>

<p>Fast forward to 2023 and this month, two of our first <a href="https://www.dofe.org/">Duke of Edinburgh</a> (DofE) Gold Award achievers were invited to celebrate with 2000 other young people from across the UK to celebrate their outstanding achievement within Buckingham Palace Gardens. This provided the opportunity for them to enjoy a variety of activities and listen to famous DofE alumni and inspirational public figures about their personal journey. The Duke of Edinburgh Award at all levels is an amazing but challenging experience and we are very proud of all of our exceptional participants, and it has been a privilege to be part of this fantastic initiative.</p>

<p>The Duke of Edinburgh Award challenges young people to attain standards of achievement and endeavour in a wide variety of active interests, to support their communities, experience adventure and to develop and learn outside the classroom. It encompasses the true intent of our programme to support learners' personal development, behaviours and attitude and employability skills.</p>

<p>Following the visit to Buckingham Palace, we caught up with the two Gold-achieving learners who told us about their experience on the day: “The speakers were really inspirational. It reminded me of when I was on the DofE. I told myself I’m not going to give up! I felt proud of what I’d achieved, it was a once in a lifetime experience.”</p>

<p>“When I got the invite to go to Buckingham Palace, I was feeling nervous and not sure about going. I am really happy I went because it was a really good experience and opportunity to go. I had amazing day. I am so glad I went. I will always remember the day. I was really proud of myself for going because I feel like I have overcome one of my fears. Thank you for the teachers at college who supported me and encouraged me to go."</p>

<p>Nick Chadwick, lecturer at Weston College, said: “It was with great pride that we were able to accompany our first Gold achievers to the celebrations at Buckingham Palace. They thoroughly deserved this accolade, and it was fantastic that we were able to celebrate and recognise their amazing determination, resilience and creativity they have shown to achieve their gold award.”</p>

<p>One parent, who accompanied the learners to Buckingham Palace, commented: “I just wanted to say a massive thank you for your support! It was such an amazing day, and one full of wonderful memories we will enjoy for years to come. Liana was thrilled to have been there and for all she experienced. She keeps talking about how she wants to be your Ambassador for DofE!”</p>

<p>It was an incredible day for everyone involved, and a memory that the learners will carry with them for years to come. We are so proud we are able to provide these enrichment experiences, where learners are developing their skills outside of the traditional classroom environment, developing and showcasing transferable skills that prepare learners for their future progression. We look forward to continuing to explore how we can further develop the DofE across our provision to support these amazing outcomes for learners.</p>

Saplings being planted for Planet earth Games

<p>Weston College recently took part in the 2023 Planet Earth Games, an <a href="https://www.aoc.co.uk/">Association of Colleges (AoC)</a> competition which uses games and challenges to engage colleges and students in climate action.</p><p>The AoC and Planet Earth Games <a href="https://planetearthgames.org/2023-college-event-launched/#:~:text=Promo… this as a “Global Movement”</a>, and have co-produced a project aimed at educating, promoting and advocating for colleges in climate action, and sustainable consumption this academic year.</p><p>The College had many activities taking place across the week, particularly in the <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/engin…; and <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/cours… Practice</a> departments.</p><p>The Faculty of Inclusive Practice (FIP) launched the ‘Wheels to Work’ campaign, where a number of staff cycled from Yatton and Clevedon through to Weston. Alongside this, free bike checks, services and cleans were offered to learners and staff.</p><p>Extension studies and Engineering also took part in a Beach Clean across Weston Seafront, to improve the beach experience for the community and help preserve the coastline.</p><p>Live salads and 100 tree saplings were planted at Butcombe farm by the learners, to assist with the environment and carbon emissions.</p><p>The engineering learners also collected reusable plastics, and moulded them into various items. The learners from FIP then sold them in their pop-up shop.</p><p>Jo Philpott, Vice Principal – Curriculum Delivery &amp; Technical Innovation, commented on the success: “We are incredibly proud of the dedication our learners had towards the Planet Earth Games initiative and the impact this has had since. We believe it is incredibly important to do our part when it comes to sustainability, and AoC’s Planet Earth Games is the ideal way to get learners engaged. I’d like to say a huge thanks to everyone involved!”</p>

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