Introduction to Business and Retail - Vocational Pathway (Supported Learning)

This course is designed for students who are interested in gaining skills and careers in business, admin or ICT but lack the required entry requirements to go onto a mainstream courses or apprenticeship programme. It is also ideal for students who need a more supported environment in which to learn and flourish and is an ideal move on from other E2 and E3 supported courses.

This course is the first step to gaining vocational qualifications that will hep you decide what pathway to take further and has a clear goal to get you work ready by the end of the pathway.

A typical week will offer you business, admin and ICT lessons and English and maths lessons with specialist teachers and a highly supportive environment. All classes are taught in small groups and are supported by Learning Support Mentors to help you with any barriers to learning that you might have.

You will follow an accredited qualification awarded through Gateway Qualifications and have the chance to do English, maths and employability lessons that help with building skills for the workplace, confidence , team work and resilience.

You must have achieved Entry 2 qualifications to consider this course, students will need to able to work at E3/ Level 1. In addition to the entry qualifications listed, the offer of a place on the course is subject to the outcomes of initial assessment, which will be taken at the College as part of the admissions process. Please note that entry criteria may vary quite significantly between courses at the same level. This is to take account of the specific skills needed for success on particular courses, the length of the course and the requirements for progression to the next level. Entry criteria are given as a guide, and the exact requirements in order to obtain a place on a particular course will be confirmed following attendance at a Welcome Event/Interview.

This course is the first step to gaining vocational qualifications that will help you decide what pathway to take further. Once you are more confident you could go onto a mainstream ICT or business course or remain on this course for a second year as it is up to 2 years duration.