Our vocational curriculum prepares learners for the world of work through a combination of practical experiences and taught learning, enabling them to develop confidence, workplace behaviours and transferable skills. Delivery is matched to the demands of each subject, ensuring learning is purposeful, accessible, and relevant.

Vocational learning supports progression into employment, further training or increased independence. Where learners are not yet able to access formal qualifications, progress is recognised through the AQA Unit Award Scheme, ensuring meaningful participation and achievement for all learners.

Learners make sustained progress from their starting points, developing confidence, employability skills and readiness for their next steps.

Vocational options include:

• Construction (Carpentry)
• Horticulture
• Hospitality and Catering
• Creative iMedia
• Health, Social and Child Care

Learners access vocational learning through carefully supported pathways that reflect individual readiness, confidence and long‑term goals.

How learners access vocational options

Pathway 1 and Pathway 2, Supported Taster Model

Learners on Pathway 1 and Pathway 2 typically begin with a short introductory period, during which they experience tasters in:

• Construction
• Horticulture
• Hospitality and Catering

This initial phase allows learners time to:

• explore different vocational areas,
• build confidence and familiarity with practical learning, and
• make an informed choice about their preferred pathway.

By the end of the first half term, learners are supported to select a vocational option which then forms the core focus of their programme throughout Year 12 and Year 13.

Pathway 3, Direct Entry Model

Learners on Pathway 3 typically select their vocational option at the outset, based on prior attainment, readiness for formal assessment and progression goals.

Pathway 3 options include:

• Construction
• Horticulture
• Hospitality and Catering

In addition to

• Creative iMedia
• Health, Social and Child Care

These additional options are offered at Level 1 and are designed for learners able to access a higher level of accredited assessment from the start of their programme.

Flexible and Responsive Delivery

While these models represent the usual structure, cohort composition and learner need can vary year to year. As a result, some higher‑level learners may access Pathway 3‑style provision as a group.

This flexibility ensures that all learners access appropriate challenge, support and progression, while maintaining a coherent and consistent vocational offer across the college. This approach ensures vocational learning remains structured and progressive, while allowing flexibility to respond to individual need and cohort composition.