Skills for Independence

 The course is designed for individuals who may need to access training to become more independent in all aspects of their lives. It is for school leavers, young people or more mature learners who need extra support with learning. A greater sense of independence and self-confidence will be achieved by building on skills and strengths.

Course Content

This is an entry level programme that aims to develop a range of skills to promote and support greater independence in day to day living.
There are currently four strands that cover areas of interest and a core focus that is covered on all courses. Each bespoke course is designed for individuals who need extra support with their learning. The courses help individuals with self confidence by building on a range of skills and strengths relevant to each person.

The four strands – for each focus

Horticulture Focus - learners will spend some time working in the newly created garden. Vegetables will be grown and harvested to be used during the cookery lessons. We will be supplying vegetables to our two catering programmes. Learners will learn how to sow seeds, transplant seedlings and take cuttings. We will also be preparing hanging baskets and containers for display around the college.
During the Winter months learners will participate in Willow work, make bird boxes and insect hotels.

Art, Crafts and Music Focus – learners will develop a range of art and craft based skills and techniques as well as explore artists work. Learners will create art and craft work for display or to bring home e.g. Greetings cards, photo frames, notelets, seasonal displays Learners will also have the opportunity to listen to a range of music genres and use percussion instruments. Learners will engage in music and dance activities that support people with non-verbal communication skills.

Travel Training and Household Shopping Focus– learners will have training to access the community to shop, investigate and use local facilities. Learners will have the opportunity to access public transport, with support, work on their money skills and develop the confidence to travel as independently as appropriate. For learners who wish to travel independently we will work closely with the Lincolnshire County Council Travel Training department.

Accessing the Community Focus- learners will access the community to shop, investigate and use Leisure facilities, as well as Commercial facilities. Public transport is also used to explore the local area. There will be opportunities for developing Health and Fitness, working as a team and volunteering.

During the course students focus on skills needed to help them develop as an individual, solve problems and make choices. Learners also have the opportunity to experience different situations through accessing the local community. The course is student led, with the curriculum individually set to learners needs from goal setting on Individual Learning Plans.

The programme content for the learner may cover areas such as: budgeting, meal planning, shopping and cooking a meal. There are many opportunities to develop skills that could prepare the learner for volunteer work.

Alongside the ‘’Work Skills’’ strand of the course, learners will also study:

• Independence Living Skills which includes topics such as; Community Awareness, Money Management, Health & Safety and Travel Training.

• Personal Development which includes topics such as; Personal Presentation, Working with Others, Assertiveness, Communication and Careers.

• English and maths

• Learners can also choose to participate in different enrichment activities over the year.
 

There are no formal entry requirements. All students are interviewed before acceptance onto the course.

Students are encouraged to progress onto the next level, or into  vocational courses, independant living or employment.

Fees for the 2013/14 academic year are currently under review. Figures given below are indicative only and subject to change. Fees will be posted here as soon as they become available.

All programme fees comprise of a maximum of three elements: 
tuition fees,
sundry teaching costs,
and examination and/or registration fees. 

Tuition fees comprise of the standard individualised cost of programme delivery.

Sundry teaching costs include the cost of all essential materials and equipment, together with any other essential expenses such as payments for residential weekends, educational visits, and any programme-related services provided by the college.

Examination and registration fees reflect the cost to the college of registering students with Awarding Bodies.

In line with the EFA’s conditions of funding fees are not payable by students aged 16-18 in full time or part time further education.

For students aged 19 years and over or where students continue beyond their expected end date and further teaching has taken place, the College may charge an additional appropriate fee.  This fee is different for each course.
The student will be given a non standard fees form, completed by the tutor and will pay the additional fee at the Registry enrolment counter (this will not apply to those students meeting fee remission criteria).

Please contact student services for advice about the fee remission criteria OR if you think you may be eligible to pay fees and they will advice you appropriately.

Additional costs for this course: students are advised to provide the following Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) items to assist with their studies:

• Warm clothing for winter months when out visiting the community, Travel Training and Household Shopping or Accessing the Community

Stationery (required for all courses):
• Pencil case with black pen, pencil, ruler, rubber, pencil sharpener, A4 folder, A4 lined note pad, A4 punched pockets, File dividers

Please contact student services if you require financial assistance to purchase these items.