Course Overview

This programme is aimed at meeting the needs of individuals with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD) and Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD).

The aim of the programme is to support the transition from school, through college, to adult life. You will have the opportunity to develop your communication and life skills. This is achieved by offering a differentiated curriculum designed to meet your individual needs. You will have the opportunity to make choices in both classbased and real-life experiences such as the College Restaurant, Learning Resource Centre and out in the community. You will be supported by highly-experienced and skilled staff in a specialised learning environment.

Your tutor and the learning support team will work with you to create an individualised programme to help you to build on individual skills enabling you to become confident in the wider community. We offer intensive interaction sessions using Somerset Total Communication and Symwriter, alongside assistive technology to enable you to develop in a way that suits you.

A multi-sensory approach is used in learning situations which can include:

• Cooking
• Interactive communication
• Life skills
• Horticulture
• Community access
• Sensory learning

Assessment Methods

You will take part in an initial assessment to establish your starting point and, with support, agree your individual learning aims. You will be assessed through continuous one-to-one observation and by building a portfolio of evidence using photographs, witness statements and video. Your progress will be monitored using RARPA (Recognising & Recording Progress & Achievement).

Progression Options

You may have the opportunity to progress further within the Choices for Independence programme and, if appropriate, go on to the Progression for an Active Life course. You will be prepared to move into adult life and in partnership with your circle of support transition into the community.