Vocational Learning Zone
As a learning zone we aim to offer a variety of vocational based subjects to suit the needs and interests of the young people within St Aldhelm's Academy. Given that young people learn in different ways and at different rates, we aim to offer personalised vocational learning opportunities.
We find that in some cases, learners may have displayed a range of challenging behaviour and have become disaffected with mainstream learning. These young people may be deemed ‘at risk’, have special educational needs, or have physical or mental health problems and our provision caters for this.
Much of the provision in place last year was provided by Sifunda a local charity providing services in three domains of practice: Therapeutics, Alternative Education and Training. They have been a valuable partner of St Aldhelm's Academy since Sept 2010.
Visit the Sifunda Website to find out more about their services >>>
here
What we believe
We believe that learning and development is best served when:
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Quality relationship is the first objective and placed at the heart of the learning and doing process
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There is a large element of the learning which its is self-directed by the learner
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The learner has an interest in the subject matter and/or commitment to the outcome
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Learning by doing (practical things) is as important as understanding theoretical ideas (explaining concepts and ideas)
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The learning process is flexible and interactive with collaborative problem-solving at the heart of the working-alliance
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Facilitators are recognised as less ‘all knowing teacher conveying a universal truth’ and much more as ‘experienced process facilitator and guide’ but without abdicating direct accountability for safety and results
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Learners take responsibility for own progress and co-determine their own targets and participate in on-going evaluation & assessment
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Learning activities are not solely based around reading and writing ability and instead a variety methods are used to collect and record evidence of skills, knowledge and capacity
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Where relevant Supported Work Placements are invaluable to apply skills and knowledge and to build self-esteem and confidence – we have several local stakeholders with whom we can place learners to benefit from a period or on-going structured and planned real work experience.
What we offer
Young people can work on a broad vocational curriculum where they have the opportunity to gain experience in a range of manual or practical work based skills, from Health and Social Care to Joinery and Construction. Students also have the opportunity to specialise in the following areas:
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Hair & Beauty
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Health & Social Care
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Land based Studies
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Construction
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Motor Vehicle Studies
How we prefer to work
We offera flexible approach to learning where young people have the opportunity and support to achieve nationally recognised qualifications.
Key elements in this process include:
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Small group Learning Activities
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One to One Tutorials
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Pastoral Support & Family outreach where required
Young people who work with us are expected not only to achieve nationally recognised qualifications (equivalent of 4 GCSE's) but to enhance their emotional literacy, increase self-regulation and improve psycho-social resilience.
Learners leave with the following on completion of their time with us:
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Nationally recognised qualification(s)
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Portfolio with evidence of knowledge, skills and achievement
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Character and work references