Work and Independence pathway at Derwen College Telford

We deliver a varied curriculum of both taught and practical activities, tailored around the needs, interests and aspirations of each young person, in preparation for adulthood.

Students learn skills and work-based routines which will enable them to progress to a variety of work experience and employment opportunities.

We also give our students the opportunity to be part of the team in our modern, commercial print shop, which is run as a commercial enterprise.

What does the Work and Independence pathway at Derwen College Telford look like?

Each young person can:

• 

  Move on from school and experience life within a further education college setting.

• Gain vital skills ready for adulthood and independent living.
• Become more independent in all aspects of their lives.
• Take part in local and national skills competitions.
• Gain subject-specific qualifications, such as food hygiene and customer service.
• Apply to represent Telford in the college’s Student Council Board.
• Participate in the various organised social events and activities.
• Access a range of work experience placements according to their aspirations and interests.
• Gain a tailored vocational qualification.
• Develop friendships.

In addition, our students also learn:

• Customer service skills.
• Hospitality skills (food preparation and service).
• Housekeeping skills.
• Health and safety requirements.
• Food hygiene skills.

Work experience

We have developed close relationships with many local businesses. This gives our students plenty of opportunity to gain regular work experience placements that are relevant to their future aspirations.

We have a well-established relationship with Premier Inn, where our students can gain a range of hospitality and housekeeping experience.

Telford also operates its own commercial print shop. This provides students with real work experience as they get involved with print projects to produce leaflets and flyers, banners and different types of laminating.

Placements are bespoke for each learner but may include:

• Hotels (inc Premier Inn)
• Cafés
• Retail settings
• Museums
• Libraries

We even managed to meet one student’s desire to work with cars and found him a placement with a local garage! Another student wants to work with animals so we found them a zoo!

Independence sessions

Teaching our students how to be independent is key in their preparation for adulthood. Taught sessions include:

• Travel training
• Skills in the home, such as meal planning, preparing and cooking food, cleaning and laundry
• Skills in the community, such as shopping, budgeting, personal safety and projects

Typical outcomes

• Vocational qualification up to Level 1
• Functional Skills qualifications
• Subject-specific qualifications
• Experience in:
  • internal and external workplaces
  • local and national competitions
  • community and national events and projects

Possible next steps after college

• Paid work
• Voluntary work
• Local college or training programme
• Supported living

Pathway and Programme booklet

Ready to apply?

We have an amazing Admissions team here at Derwen College, and they’re waiting to support you through this next stage of your education and learning. Get in touch and start your Derwen College journey today.

• admissions@derwen.ac.uk
• 01691 661234 ext 401