Course Overview
Through a carefully structured and thoughtfully sequenced curriculum, you will explore a wide range of essential life-skill areas, including personal safety, household skills, healthy living, money management, travel training, and active participation in the community. Each unit is designed to be practical, hands-on, and engaging, helping you connect new knowledge to meaningful, real-life situations.
Activities encourage problem-solving, independence, and confidence, giving you the opportunity to practise your skills both in the classroom and in everyday environments. Alongside classroom-based learning, you will regularly apply and develop your abilities within the college’s supported learning environments, where staff provide guidance tailored to your individual needs. You will also take part in structured experiences in the wider community, helping you become familiar with local services, develop social interaction skills, and gain the confidence to manage daily life more independently.
Entry Requirements:
No formal qualifications are required
Course Highlights
Course Units
• Applying for a job
• Completing a task
• Making choices
• Being a householder
• Numeracy skills for work
• Working in a team
• Managing Money
• Understanding the world of work
• Self-advocacy
Course Breakdown
Course Structure
Most of your learning takes place in a structured classroom or specialist SEND environment, where sessions are interactive, visual, and hands-on. Your lessons are delivered by experienced tutors and supported by learning support assistants who understand your individual needs.
• Activities include role play, group discussions, practical demonstrations, and guided tasks that help you build communication, confidence, and problem-solving skills.
• You will practise everyday life skills such as preparing simple meals, managing money, understanding safety, and developing healthy routines.
• Your tutors use a range of teaching methods, including visual supports, assistive technology, and differentiated resources, to make learning accessible and engaging for you.
Assessment on the Independent Living course is continuous and portfolio-based, focusing on demonstrating practical skills and understanding rather than written tests.
• You will gather evidence of your achievements through observation records, photographs, videos, and completed worksheets.
• Your tutors will assess your progress throughout the year, ensuring you can demonstrate competence in a range of real-life tasks linked to the qualification’s learning outcomes.
• You will receive regular feedback in an encouraging and constructive way, helping you recognise your achievements and identify next steps.
• You will have a personal learning plan (PLP) that tracks your progress, sets achievable targets, and celebrates your individual success.
Progression & Next Steps
When you complete the programme, you will be well prepared to progress onto a Level 2 vocational programme, a supported internship, or a specialist pathway that matches your skills and interests. The Foundation Programme helps you build the confidence, independence, and employability skills you need to succeed in your chosen field and beyond.