Our Foundation Studies courses are for young people who need support to achieve their learning goals. Some of our students have learning difficulties and/or disabilities or may have missed opportunities at school.
We provide a supported learning environment which promotes independent living and working skills.
Every student has a Personal Tutor, and together they set personal targets to work towards.
Each class has a Lecturer and a Learning Support Assistant. Students are encouraged to support each other with their learning. Students are expected to work towards independence in social aspects of their day, particularly during lunch and coffee breaks. BCA is very proactive in ensuring that Foundation students are integrated fully into all aspects of college life.
Courses available:
Horizons - Pre Entry
The Horizons programme is for learners with profound and complex needs. The Curriculum is varied and focuses on communication and sensory learning. Learners on this programme will enjoy a wide range of inclusive opportunities across the campus as well as individual and differentiated education in our superbly equipped specialist classrooms.
Programme content
Students on the course will complete a Certificate in Personal Progress and an award in ICT Skills. The course is assessed through specialist assignments.
Entry requirements
An interview and transition meeting will be required to assess suitability for the programme.
Assessment method
Specialist assignments.
Pathways - Entry Level
The Pathways programme is a range of three courses designed to enable all learners to achieve their potential. Through a variety of tailored learning opportunities, students will develop skills for work and life, improve their communication, maths and IT skills and personal confidence. The courses make full use of the beautiful campus, learners will study Conservation, Animal Care, Cookery and Horticulture, as well as exciting lessons in a range of relevant skills to encourage them to participate fully in employment, volunteer work or further education.
Progression between courses is encouraged to enable them to achieve their personal best.
Programme content
Entry Level One learners will study Skills for Supported Employment, Independent Living Skills and lessons in Personal Progress, focussing on developing personal skills and strengths to achieve independence and self-confidence.
Entry Level Two learners will have similar opportunities and take an Award in Personal Social Development and a Diploma in Vocational Studies along with Functional Skills in Maths, English and ICT at levels tailored to suit them. You will also experience a wide range of opportunities and experiences, enhanced by our beautiful campus, to develop their skills in a variety of situations.
The third course in Pathways is Entry Level Three; this course also includes Functional Skills in Maths, English and ICT at a level suited to the learners’ individual needs. You will also study a Diploma in Skills for Working Life and an Award in Vocational Studies, both of which develop you to enter the employment market or progress to further education. Pathways is a series of structured, supported educational opportunities to develop your existing skill base and offer a range of exciting learning experiences in a vibrant and stimulating environment.
Entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for these courses. Students will be assessed at interview and at the start of their course to place them on the most appropriate level.
Plus a satisfactory school reference and successful completion of an Inital Assessment.
Assessment method
These courses are assessed through individual and group assignments in a range of formats, mostly practical and vocational with some written.
Equipment needed
Students will require basic stationery equipment, as well as outdoor waterproof clothing and safety boots.
Progression
Successful students are able to progress through the Pathways levels, as well as into other course areas within the college, if appropriate.
Employment opportunities
Supported employment opportunities are provided for our learners at Entry Level Three. Help, support and careers advice are provided for all our learners. These courses are designed to enable learners to develop confidence and skills to aid their entry to employment.
Steps to Success - Level 1
The Steps to Success course is designed to equip learners for employment or further education. It offers the opportunity to improve personal confidence and academic skills to enable you to progress onto further study. Students participate in a variety of activities across the college including Horticulture, Conservation, Sport and Enrichment opportunities. The course teaches valid and relevant employment skills whilst the accompanying Functional Skills develop Maths, English and ICT.
Programme content
Students study for an Award in Personal Social Development and a Diploma in Vocational Studies. You will develop the skills needed to gain employment, including the chance to attend a work experience placement.
Entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements. Suitability will be based upon an interview, and a satisfactory school reference.
Assessment method
The course is assessed through individual and group assignments in a range of formats; mostly practical and vocational with some written.
Equipment needed
Students will require basic stationery equipment, as well as outdoor waterproof clothing and safety boots.
Progression
Progression onto other college courses is possible upon successful completion.
Employment opportunities
Help, support and career advice is provided for all learners. The course is designed to enable learners to develop confidence and skills to aid entry to employment.
Please come to a student advisory event for more details of the vocational areas and enrichment opportunities available at each course level.
Other Level 1 programmes - click on a heading (open a new window)
Level 1 Diploma in Land-based Studies (Animal Care)
Edexcel BTEC Level 1 Diploma in Sport and Active Leisure
CACHE Level 1 Award / Certificate / Diploma in Caring for Children (QCF)
Level 1 Diploma in Land-based Studies (Horticulture)
BTEC Level 1 Diploma in Health and Social Care
ABC Level 1 Certificate in Motor Vehicle Studies
BTEC Level 1 Diploma in Public Services
