The ILS department is made up of around 200 students with varying abilities and needs. We deliver a destination led curriculum that is designed to meet learners’ desired outcomes and aspirational goals. The ILS curriculum has 4 courses as follows:
Our Roots course is dedicated to supporting learners in building essential life skills and confidence to live as independently as possible. Through a personalised, person-centred approach, we help learners develop practical skills, self-awareness and social confidence, empowering them to grow at their own pace in a nurturing environment.
With Journey to Progression, we support and develop individuals on their unique journeys toward independence, employment or successful progression. Guided by destination-led learning, we empower each student to explore, grow and achieve their aspirations through personalised support and development.
Inclusive Futures is designed to inspire learners to take meaningful steps toward greater independence and confidence. Through a personalised approach, we focus on developing practical life skills that prepare learners for real-world challenges. Alongside a tailored curriculum, and with the option of integrated or stand-alone literacy and numeracy, learners can acquire the skills and confidence needed to transition into supported employment, further education, or independent work. This course provides a nurturing environment where individuals can explore opportunities and achieve their goals.
To be eligible for our Steps programme, learners will have attended a course within the ILS department for at least one year. The curriculum is fully individualised to meet the specific goals, aspirations and needs of each learner, ensuring that all learning aligns with their personal targets and destinations. Through a person-centred approach, the course aims to guide and support learners to make progress towards their targets which are determined by the following destinations: employment, supported internship, or mainstream Level one courses.
Our Supported Internship Programme is designed for post-16 learners with additional learning needs in their final year of College. The programme is person- centred, focusing on individual learner destinations and supporting their transition from College into employment. Learners will be primarily based in the workplace, where they will develop essential employability skills through real-world experience.
The course aims to build confidence, competence, and independence, enabling learners to make a successful transition into the working world. Class-based sessions will complement this experience by providing structured learning opportunities around key themes, with a particular emphasis on employability.
Before you start, you will meet with our team who will discuss the most appropriate course for you. Individual targets will be set to ensure you make progress towards your long term goals. You will work towards personalised targets through a variety of projects and activities. Your tutor will help you review your targets every term.
Literacy and numeracy will be embedded into your course and you will continue to work on these skills during your time at College. Some students where appropriate will also receive discrete numeracy and literacy lessons to support their progression at College or to achieve employment. You will also where appropriate be given the opportunity to improve GCSE Maths and English grades.
Frequently asked questions
Your weekly schedule will be determined during your course offer meeting. This typically depends on the course you choose, but most students attend College for three or four days per week.
Each course runs for one academic year. At the end of each year, your progress will be reviewed to determine whether continuing for another year is the best option. Most students stay in the department for two or three years of full-time study, depending on their progression and goals.