Through holistic education, with specialist therapeutic support in a modern college environment, learners improve their independence and confidence whilst developing employability skills and completing academic qualifications. We cater for young people requiring a nurturing and calm environment in order to achieve formal Level 1/2/3 vocational qualifications.
All students follow a personalised curriculum selecting from a variety of subject options to suit individual strengths & preferences. A significant part of this curriculum offer is the broader enrichment and personal development provision which includes careers, PSHE, cooking and well-being activities. The curriculum also offers learners the opportunity to improve their application of mathematics, English and digital literacy.
With a focus on the Preparation for Life Agenda, learners develop essential life skills and their knowledge of the world and the communities they live in. Learners will be able to transfer the skills they learn and practice at the college to their home and in the workplace environment.
All learners have individual learning plans which map out their profiles of need and long term goals; these sit alongside their Education Health Care Plans (EHCPs) to identify the outcomes that they will work towards in an educational and social context. The curriculum at Bankside College is designed to challenge, be age-appropriate and focus on learners thriving in educational, social, and enrichment activities.
In addition, the Curriculum draws on the Options Autism and Outcomes First Group’s wider expertise to further enhance our provision.
For further information on the Stages of the curriculum please click here
Learning Pathways:
Stage 1 — Foundation and Exploration
Students engage in a range of lessons designed to build core skills, confidence, and a love of learning within their chosen subjects. Most learners remain in Stage 1 for one academic year, though some may continue longer if it better supports their progress. Functional Skills Maths and English exams are offered individually, with students entered when they are ready.
Learners will complete a combination of BTEC Level 1 Introductory Qualifications & AQA awards. Subjects typically offered come from:
- Art & photography
- Hair & Beauty
- Business
- Digital Media
- Working with animals – handling, 1st aid, animal care
- Construction
- Home Cooking Skills – theory & practical
- Health & Social Care
- IT
Stage 2 — Specialisation and Qualification
Alongside continued holistic development, students begin to specialise in subjects aligned with their strengths and aspirations. During this stage, learners typically work toward achieving two or more discrete qualifications over a two‑year period. Functional Skills Maths and English exams continue to be taken on an individual readiness basis.
Subject offer will vary according to students’ needs however at this Stage students will complete BTEC qualifications at Level 2 standard, subjects selected from:
- Health & Social Care
- Business
- Hair & beauty
- Art & Design
- Construction
- Creative Digital media
- IT
- Catering
Stage 3 — Practical Pathways and Preparation for Adulthood
Learners transition into practical, employment‑focused experiences that consolidate their skills and prepare them for adulthood. Programmes become increasingly personalised, with opportunities to pursue additional Level 2 and/or Level 3 qualifications where appropriate. Functional Skills Maths and English remain available when students are ready to achieve their best outcome.
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