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GAPS

STUDY PROGRAMME DUNSTABLE

PROVIDING EDUCATION AND TRAINING

G OALS A CTION P ROGRESS S UCCEED

2024 Prospectus

CONTENTS

Message from TCHCs Managing Director............................................................... 3 About TCHC...................................................................................................................... 4 Intake and eligibility requirements........................................................................... 5 Why choose GAPS Study Programme?.................................................................... 6 Inclusivity at TCHC......................................................................................................... 8 What will my programme look like?........................................................................ 10 Vocational courses........................................................................................................ 11 Construction multi-skills........................................................................................ 12 Horticulture............................................................................................................... 15 Health & Social Care............................................................................................... 16

Future skills Employability and careers....................................................................................18 Independence........................................................................................................... 20

Functional skills English and maths................................................................................................... 22 Essential Digital skills............................................................................................. 23

Work skills........................................................................................................................ 24 Steps to work.................................................................................................................. 25 Pastoral & Wellbeing Support.................................................................................... 26 Personal & Social Development................................................................................. 26 Alternative education for schools............................................................................. 27 FAQs for learners........................................................................................................... 28 FAQs for parents............................................................................................................ 29 Case studies..................................................................................................................... 30 Gallery............................................................................................................................... 32 What else do TCHC offer?........................................................................................... 34 Route to employment programme................................................................... 35

Contact details................................................................................................................ 36

MESSAGE FROM... COURTNEY GRINHAM

Managing Director at TCHC Welcome to TCHCs GAPS Study Programme! GAPS Study Programme is designed to help bridge the gap between education and employment and provide an alternative to mainstream education. Our qualified, passionate and experienced tutors are here to support all learners to find the right path for their journey and to be ready to take the next step - be that further education or employment. Since starting our GAPS Study Programme in 2013, TCHC have helped 1225 learners to achieve their goals. We look forward to helping more learners to achieve positive steps in their futures and to continue to transform their lives!

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ABOUT TCHC TCHC is a family owned and family run Ofsted Grade 2 provider who have supported local communities across London, South East, Midlands, and Home Counties for 18 years. We have helped over 500,000 learners and over 65,000 companies to progress into better opportunities. Our GAPS centres provide access to a variety of Study Programmes to support entry into further education. Set within the local community, we pride ourselves on the nurturing environment our centres provide which helps us to get the best out of our learners. TCHC provide fully inclusive education training ensuring all learning needs can be met using a diverse range of teaching and learning resources. At our GAPS centres, you will find a calm, positive culture that encourages success with all individuals that attend.

OUR INTAKE WHEN CAN I JOIN? Course starting points: Intake starts in September and continues throughout the academic year.

CAN I JOIN? Eligibility requirements: Aged 16 - 18 Aged 19 - 24 if you have an Educational Health Care Plan (EHCP) For the Route to Employment programme you must be 19 - 24 Not in Education, Employment or Training

HOW DO I JOIN? It's simple! Just call or visit us and we will help get you started! To apply for any of our courses, or to arrange a visit please call us on 01923 698443 or email us at dunstable.gaps@tchc.net

WHY CHOOSE GAPS STUDY PROGRAMME?

1-2-1

SUPPORT THE TCHC HAVE GIVEN ME HE BEST SUPPORT AND T IFE! GRADES I NEED FOR L

SUPPORTIVE AND NURTURING ENVIRONMENT STAFF GO ABOVE AND BEYOND FOR ALL YOUNG PEOPLE

NOT JUST ABOU T EDUCATION BUT SKILLS FOR LIFE AND W ORK

SMALL ER CLASS SIZES 7

INCLUSIVITY AT TCHC

TCHC works to effectively include learners with complex needs. We have the facilities and expertise to support learners with special educational needs including: Sensory and physical needs Cognition and learning Communication and interaction Social and emotional difficulties Mental health Learners with complex communication difficulties and Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) At TCHC we embed preparing for adulthood objectives to support individuals developing their independence. TCHC GAPS provides a personalised and flexible programme of support, which is updated regularly, to give our learners a positive learning experience. All courses will be accredited through National Awarding Bodies.

WHAT WILL MY STUDY PROGRAMME LOOK LIKE? At TCHC, your programme will be individual and tailor-made to fit your specific needs Usually, attendance is 3/4 days per week. This is dependent on the course chosen Each day starts at 9.15am and ends at 15.45pm

Vocational Aim Work Experience

Work Skills

Example of your Programme

Maths & English

Life Skills

VOCATIONAL COURSES What is a vocational course? A vocational course is a training programme that focuses more on practical work, rather than traditional academic exams. Adapting to local needs We can provide other vocational Study Programmes and skills training depending on interest for a specific vocational area.

CONSTRUCTION MULTI-SKILLS Level One, Award, Certificate, Diploma This course is designed for learners who want to learn a variety of basic practical skills in Construction Craft trades. You should be interested in the construction industry and/or developing some home DIY skills, if this is you, then this is the starting point. This course is suitable if you want to gain knowledge on the construction industry and have an interest in developing your practical skills within this sector.

What will I learn? Construction Craft Trades You will develop and practice the skills required for a number of disciplines covering a number of skills including health & safety, construction principles and practical assessments. For each area, you will study the theory and be taught the underpinning knowledge through practical activities. Our qualified tutors will support and guide you in the classrooms/workshops and through tutorials so you can develop the skills and techniques required. Learning Support will be available for those with learning difficulties/disabilities.

Progression On completion, you will have the opportunity to move onto higher level courses and have an improved opportunity of securing an apprenticeship.

Career Paths Painter & Decorator, Carpenter, Tiler, Plasterer, Bricklayer, Plumber, Electrician, Surveyor, Labourer, Roofer, Scaffolder, Architect and Civil Engineer.

HORTICULTURE

Level 1 Award, Certificate, Diploma These courses will give you a practical introduction to landscaping. Providing you with an understanding of the type of work and career opportunities that are available in Horticulture. These will be delivered at our centre on the Dunstable Downs.

What will I learn? Maintaining gardens throughout all seasons Plant identification - trees, shrubs, perennials, and annuals Using a range of tools and machinery Laying different types of pathways Building and maintaining garden structures Health and safety Site development - how to plan areas for work A great deal of this course will be carried out in a practical environment with some classroom-based study.

Progression Upon completion of the course you can move onto a higher level of study or apply for apprenticeships within the sector. This course also gives you the knowledge to apply for different positions of work within many different sectors. You will discuss your options throughout the year on a 1:1 basis with your Information, Advice and Guidance Adviser.

Career Paths Gardener, Greenkeeper, Garden/Landscape Designer, Ground Maintenance Worker, Horticultural Therapist, Tree Surgeon, Ecologist, Florist, Forester, Plant Nursery/Garden Centre Worker or Manager, Ranger, Environmental Specialist or Education and Conservation Assistant/Officer.

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE

Level 1 and Level 2, Award, Certificate, Diploma If you are a naturally caring individual who would like a rewarding career, this course will provide you with an excellent introduction into the health and social care sector. The aim of this course is to help you develop the knowledge, awareness, and understanding of the types of provision in the industry. You will be able to gain the skills required for a higher-level course or employment.

What will I learn? Health and Social Care needs The range of service provision and roles within Health and Social Care Principles and values in Health and Social Care Awareness of protection and safeguarding Communication in Health and Social Care Quality and inclusion in different settings Health and safety within the industry The meaning of Person Centred support How to work with others within the industry

Progression Upon completion of the course, you can move onto a higher level of study, apply for apprenticeships or apply for jobs within many different sectors. You will discuss your options throughout the year on a 1:1 basis with your Information, Advice and Guidance adviser.

Career Path Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Social Worker, Child Protective Services Worker, Family Support Worker, Residential Care Worker, Youth Worker, Childcare Worker, Early Childhood Educator, Nursery Teacher, Early Years Educator, Educational Psychologist, Pharmacist and Midwife.

FUTURE SKILLS:

EMPLOYABILITY & CAREERS Entry Level to Level 2 Our Future Skills programmes are designed for learners to work towards developing their skills, qualities and social skills. Programmes are intended to be for those who need a supportive learning environment providing different approaches to support the individual. This course is delivered from TCHC GAPS Centre and acts as a transitional year if you are still looking at your future options for further education.

Entry Level to Level 2 This course is perfect for helping you identify a career path if unsure. We will explore different career options with tasters in several industries suitable for you. Within this programme you will receive ongoing information, advice and guidance. The opportunity to develop a career plan for your future.

What will I learn? You will develop transferable skills to increase your independence What industries are available in your local area (careers) Community enterprise projects (teamwork skills) Have opportunities to meet employers Have opportunities to complete work experience What courses are available in your local area What Apprenticeships are and how to apply How to complete job applications Develop and work on your confidence CV building Digital skills Customer service skills Communication skills Resilience Time management

Progression Progression from this programme will lead to either higher levels of learning, work experience programmes, full or part time work.

EMPLO YABIL ITY CAREE RS

FUTURE SKILLS: INDEPENDENCE Entry Level The aim of this course is to give you the confidence you need to lead a more active and independent life.

What will I learn? This depends on what you want to get from the programme. Some examples include: Travel training using public transport, walking to destinations, and planning routes for safety Housekeeping strategies Budgeting and shopping skills Meeting and greeting others Resilience workshops Communication and interaction workshops Community enterprise projects Careers advice Cooking is an essential skill required in life! This course will provide you with the practical knowledge you will need to ensure you can cook for yourself and others in a nutritious and affordable manner.

Progression Further Education

NT E D EN P E D N I E M O BEC

FUNCTIONAL SKILLS

ENGLISH & MATHS Entry Level - Level 2 Functional skills provide essential knowledge, skills, and understanding that will enable you to confidently, effectively, and independently progress in life and work. As a GAPs learner, you will have the opportunity to work towards achieving maths and English qualifications with a suitably qualified tutor through a personalised learning plan. We use a practical approach when teaching maths and English. Our tutors will help you apply what you have learnt to everyday tasks and problems.

Stepping Stones Functional Skills themed awards will help you to build a portfolio of work to support any gaps in learning and does not require any end of year exams. This will help you work towards Functional Skills maths and English.

82% of all jobs in the UK list digital skills as a requirement*

ESSENTIAL DIGITAL SKILLS This course is perfect for helping you to improve and learn new skills across a range of IT applications that are required by employers in the technology sector. You will be using up to date software and hardware to ensure you can learn effectively.

What will I learn? - Build digital skills for everyday life and work. Use digital devices for handling information, gain knowledge of different applications. Learn how to be safe and responsible online and on digital devices.

*Sourced from: hays.co.uk

WORK SKILLS Level 1 and 2 Work Skills is a subject area that will provide advice on careers and employment and become part of your Study Programme. It is important for you to develop a good work ethic and the right skills to enable progression for employment.

What will I learn? CV building How to complete job application forms What apprenticeships are and how to apply for them Interview skills Presentation skills Appropriate communication skills for employment How to search for employment How to keep a job

97% of employers say that soft skills are key to business growth or success*

*Sourced from: Kelvin Murray & Co, 2015

STEPS TO WORK Why do work experience? Employers are always looking for learners who have had work experience. You will have the opportunity to undertake work experience in different formats: Block work experience Extended work experience Taster days

What will I learn? Customer service and communication skills Commercial awareness for your place of work Working on tasks and managing yourself Teamwork Time management How to use initiative Use of functional skills Accepting responsibility

Benefits: Through having a positive work experience you will be able to use this on your CV; gain a reference and have experiences to talk about in interviews for employment or apprenticeships. If a vacancy became available at the placement, you could apply if the role is suitable. Your experience would be related to what your career aspirations are, in relations to your studies.

PASTORAL AND WELLBEING SUPPORT TCHC GAPS understand that some young people need some extra support to enable them to feel comfortable within education settings. We have experienced staff who are there to support all young people in a tailored way, in order to meet their needs through a person-centred approach. This can be delivered within group sessions or 1:1 sessions where each young person has time to express their thoughts, feelings, worries, concerns or even to take part in goal setting/information, advice & guidance activities. We strive to support all learners within the Centre to ensure that their physical and emotional welfare needs are acknowledged and nurtured.

PERSONAL & SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT Personal Social Development (PSD) is embedded within all sessions as well as a direct focus on community projects, information, advice & guidance, sexual health, healthy living, social skills, money management and independence skills.

ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION FOR SCHOOLS

SCHOOLS PROGRAMME for key stage 4 Working with schools to improve vital skills Sessions are designed on individuals' needs and take place during term time One or two days a week 9.15 to 15.45

Programmes available: Independence skills Skills for work Health and Social Care Customer service Adapting to local needs We can adapt schools programmes to meet the needs of local schools

For further information please contact the TCHC GAPS, Dunstable Centre Manager: Call: 01923 698443 Email: dunstable.gaps@tchc.net

FAQs for LEARNERS Q: How do I apply for a course? A: Within the prospectus, you will see your options on page 5, or call us and we will help you through the process.

Q: How many days a week will I attend? A: Depending on your course, this could be 3 or 4 days a week.

Q: What happens at the end of my course? A: Your tutors will be supporting you through the year with the IAG adviser. They will work with you to develop a progression plan through the year so you can see your options for when your course finishes.

Q: Where can I go for lunch? A: You have the option to eat your own lunch within the communal areas or you can have a separate room. In some cases, lunch can be provided. If you want to buy lunch there is an ASDA close by and other local amenities available. Q: Can I have a part-time job and still attend GAPS? A: While on your programme, you will be able to work part-time around your programme days. Q: Are there any bursaries available to me? A: You may be eligible for a bursary while in education, this will enable you to have support in the following areas: travel, free lunch and clothing for interviews.

FAQs for PARENTS Q: How will I be kept informed about my son/daughter's progress? A: Progress reports will be available during the course of the year. You will also be able to discuss your son/daughter's progress at reviews you will be invited to throughout the year.

Q: What if my son/daughter cannot attend the Centre? A: Inform the centre by calling or emailing with the following details: Your young person's full name Date of Birth The reason for absence Expected date of return

Q: What happens if my son/daughter is being bullied or harassed? A: The Centre will not tolerate bullying or harassment. Learners should inform their personal tutor or the Centre Manager. You can email dunstable.gaps@tchc.net

CASE STUDIES

I came to TCHC rather than a mainstream college because they have a smaller building, smaller classrooms and less learners in each class. At TCHC, the staff have made me feel comfortable by taking things at my own pace and being able to go into rooms on my own for lessons, they also have a room where anyone can have a time out and relax if they are having a bad day. They have supported me by asking me how they can help me work towards my goal and adjusting my plan to reflect that. The staff have been able to solve my shortterm problems and work towards solving my longterm ones, it is because of this, I feel more confident. TCHC is a great place to go as they have an individual plan for every learner and helps them by being able to adapt to their needs in a calm and controlled environment.

When I first joined, I was a ball of anger. I hated education and the world. The staff at the centre took time to listen and get to know me and would allow me to have time to myself to think. Over time I gradually started to manage my anger and felt comfortable. I had a lot going on in my personal life, coming here helped me forget about all of my problems on the outside. Three years on, I am nearly ready for the world of work, having gained many qualifications and grown as a person. Now I’ve realised how far I have come in the last three years, and I am very proud of myself. If you struggle with school or college, consider coming to TCHC because they will support you with any problems that you may have, and they will help you to develop your skills so that you grow in confidence and are ready for work and life.

WHAT ELSE DO TCHC OFFER? 34

ROUTE TO EMPLOYMENT PROGRAMME This programme will help you get started in the sector you want to work in. How will you learn? During the programme you will take part in work placements, classroom learning, online classes, and job interviews. You will learn and develop links with local employers. The work placement element will help to broaden your CV for when you apply for future positions. Opportunity to gain accredited qualifications that will increase your opportunities.

AVAILABLE FOR 19 - 24 YEAR OLDS

FIND US... 47 Edward Street, Dunstable, LU6 1HE

@tchcgroup