All Post-16 students within New Collaborative Learning Trust study ESFA funded study programmes which combine qualifications with other activities. The study programme for each student provides a structured and challenging learning programme that supports their development and progression in line with their career plans. Study programmes are finalised during individual enrolment interviews following the publication of GCSE results. Additionally, pre-enrolment interviews take place with all students to provide support and guidance to help students select appropriate study programmes when they enrol.
Qualifications
All students study full-time level 3 study programmes, apart from a very small number where there may be exceptional circumstances and needs. All schools and colleges within the Trust offer a wide range of level 3 qualifications, which includes A levels, level 3 applied qualifications and, in some cases, T levels.
Ordinarily, students will study
- 3 A levels qualification, or
- 3 applied qualifications (potentially made up from single, double or triple-sized qualifications), or
- A mixed programme of 3 courses which combines A levels and applied qualifications, or
- A T level qualification
Core Aims
For students studying a T level qualification, this will be recorded as their core learning aim. The majority of students will study multiple single qualifications and we try to identify the core learning aim as the course most closely linked to the student’s future career aspirations, where possible.
Progression and Next Steps
For the majority of students, these qualifications support progression to higher education, but others progress to apprenticeships or employment. A comprehensive careers programme is provided in all schools and colleges to help support students to make informed decisions about their next steps, to develop the skills and behaviours needed in their next stage of learning or employment, and to navigate applications and admissions processes. Specialist support and guidance is provided to students that wish to take part in work experience. For some qualifications, work experience forms a formal part of the qualification.
GCSE maths and English
Students that enrol and who meet entry requirements but who do not yet have a Grade 4 in GCSE mathematics are also enrolled onto a GCSE maths resit programme, alongside their level 3 qualifications. Grade 4 (or higher) in GCSE English Language is a core entry requirement for all qualifications. Where an exception is made and a student is permitted to enrol onto a level 3 programme but without a grade 4 in GCSE English Language, students will be enrolled onto a GCSE English Language resit programme. Full details about admissions arrangements are set out in the Admissions Policy and additional details are also included in prospectuses.
Guided Learning Hours
In order to meet the minimum 580 hours per year required for funding, all students will have 4.5 hours of timetabled lessons each week for each single qualification they are studying, for all A level, applied and GCSE resit qualifications. T level student hours are made up from a combination of in-college lessons and work placement. All students will also attend timetabled tutorial sessions each week, addressing issues such as effective study skills, next steps and careers, issues around safeguarding, safety and wellbeing, and broader personal development. Where appropriate, additional time and support are provided to students who require additional pastoral or careers support. Some students may have additional timetabled sessions, either to support their effective use of independent study time or to provide additional small group subject support.
Personal Development and Enrichment
Students are able to participate in a range of personal development, enrichment and extra-curricular activities, through the delivery of the tutorial programme, through activities delivered within qualifications, or through whole school/college initiatives and opportunities. Programmes and options vary across our schools and colleges.
