Foundation Studies

Foundation Studies has been designed for students with special educational needs and learning difficulties or who have been unable to achieve any formal qualifications at school. The course is very practical in nature and aims to raise the confidence and self-esteem of students who have, for whatever reason, found the learning environment difficult. Through providing a supportive and stimulating learning environment, the learning experience becomes enjoyable and our students begin to believe in themselves and their abilities.

Foundation Studies is a one-year full-time course, and enables students to take part in a variety of activities throughout the week including farming, gardening, small animal care, woodwork, and horse care. Students will also have the opportunity to further their knowledge in life skills and functional skills in English, Maths and ICT.

Following the successful completion of year one, Foundation Studies students are able to progress on to a Level 1 Diploma course, specialising in the area they found most interesting.

Entry requirements:

There are no formal entry requirements for the Foundation Studies course; however, students need to have an interest in land-based subjects and the motivation to achieve.

Work experience:

If students progress to the second year of their course, they complete a block of two weeks’ work experience, which gives them with the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the world of work. Students arrange their own work placement in a related organisation with the guidance and support of the Foundation Studies staff.

Career opportunities:

Foundation Studies students have gone on to find work in a range of organisations, including: farms, nurseries, landscape gardening, riding stables, pet shops, kennels, catteries and animal rescue centres.

Facilities:

• Gardening equipment and hand tools
• Tractor
• Horticultural unit including polytunnels and raised vegetable beds
• Small animal care unit and bird aviary
• Life skills department to teach independent living
• Livestock including:
  • small sheep flock
  • pygmy goats
  • flock of chickens

How to Apply

See the How to apply for Further Education Courses page for information and an application form