Step Up to Level 3

The Step Up course is a full-time programme for 16–19 year old learners who are not yet ready to move directly onto a main vocational course. It is designed to help students re-engage with education, build confidence, and explore different subject areas before deciding on their next step.

The course provides a supportive and structured environment where learners can develop essential learning, personal, and employability skills. STEP Up helps students understand their strengths and interests while preparing them to successfully progress onto a full vocational programme at college.

The Step Up course is ideal for students who:

• Are unsure about what career or subject they want to choose
• May have had poor attendance or engagement in previous education
• Need time and support to rebuild confidence and motivation
• Want to prepare for a vocational course but are not yet ready

You will be supported by experienced tutors who understand the challenges young people face and who will help you set goals, improve attendance, and take positive steps towards your future

You will develop a range of skills that will help you progress into your next course, including:

• Personal and social development
• Communication and teamwork skills
• Confidence and self-motivation
• Study skills and learning routines
• Employability skills and workplace behaviours
• Resit English and maths GCSE
• Exploring different vocational areas to help you make an informed choice

The course also focuses on building resilience, independence, and a positive attitude to learning.

The Step Up course is designed to prepare you to progress onto:

• A main curriculum vocational course at college
• An apprenticeship (where appropriate)
• Further preparatory or employability programmes

The aim is to help you make a confident and informed decision about your future study or career path.

We encourage all students to self-source a work placement but where appropriate we can help you find a suitable placement using our extensive contacts with local employers.

You will have support from dedicated tutors and support, guidance to help you plan your next steps. help with improving attendance, timekeeping, and organisation, access to learning support if applicable and support from welfare and student services when needed.  Our staff will work closely with you to help you overcome barriers to learning and achieve your goals. Additionally, , eligible students can access a wide range of finance and funding support to help them during their time at college.

Foundation Learning is a supportive and inclusive department with experienced staff who specialise in engagement and progression, we have strong links across college departments to support progression with a focus on helping learners rebuild confidence and succeed through high levels of learner support and guidance.

You should be aged 16–19 years, and have a willingness to re-engage with learning.  For this course you will need 4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English and maths.

The Step Up course is funded for eligible 16–19 year olds. Additional financial support may be available through the college bursary.

Any costs attached to trips and visits or any PPE required will be notified in advance and all costs are kept to a minimum to ensure all learners can participate. Help is available if learners are in receipt of a bursary.