Dunstable GAPS - Prospectus 2025/26

TCHC DUNSTABLE

GAPS CENTRE TCHC DUNSTABLE GAPS COURSE GUIDE

2025/26

Contents

1

How to apply

2

About TCHC

4

How we support you

5

OFSTED

7

Financial Support & Bursaries

8

Entry requirements and eligibility

9

What is a study programme?

10

Vocational courses

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Business & Retail

13

Construction

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Painting & Decorating

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Health & Care

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Independence Skills

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Functional Skills English and maths

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Personal development & work skills

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Work experience

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Attendance

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Learner case studies

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Words from parents/carers

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FAQs for learners

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FAQs for parents/carers

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Contact details

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To apply online visit www.tchc.net

HOW TO APPLY Please apply online at www.tchc.net or by scanning the QR code below and filling out the Expression of Interest form.

If you need any advice, feel free to contact the centre directly on

01582 310030 or email dunstable.gaps@tchc.net

Register your interest!

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OUR POSITIVE VALUES Pursuing excellence, openness supporting each other, Instilling confidence, transformational leadership, inspirational, valuing diversity and empowering others

Who are TCHC? TCHC is an Ofsted Good provider who have supported local communities across Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Peterborough and Suffolk for 20 years. We have helped over 500,000 learners progress into better opportunities.

What is GAPS? Our GAPS centres provide access to a variety of study programmes to support entry into further education and work.

Set within the local community, we pride ourselves on the nurturing environment our centres provide which helps us to get the best out of our learners.

TCHC provide fully inclusive education ensuring all learning needs can be met using a diverse range of teaching and learning resources and approaches. At our GAPS centres, you will find a calm, positive culture that encourages success with all individuals that attend.

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HOW WE SUPPORT YOU At TCHC we provide opportunities to develop independence skills and prepare for adulthood.

TCHC GAPS provides a personalised and flexible programme of support, which is updated regularly, to give our learners a positive learning experience.

Your support requirements will be determined upon enrolment Tutor support Learning support assistants Careers, Information, Advice and Guidance Wellbeing TCHC strives to effectively accommodate all learners’ learning differences. We have the facilities and expertise to support learners with special educational needs including: Sensory needs Cognition and learning Communication and interaction Social and emotional difficulties Mental health

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The staff are helpful and I feel like I can talk to them when I need to.

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OFSTED SAID Learners at TCHC enjoy and value the education that they receive. They appreciate being taught in small groups and learning at a pace that helps them to succeed. Learners comment positively about the flexible approach to learning and how tutors teach subjects in bitesize topics so that learners can understand them thoroughly before moving on to the next topic. Learners like the friendly and helpful approach of tutors at TCHC. They feel welcome and well supported.

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WORKING IN SMALL GROUPS At TCHC we understand that every young person’s educational journey is unique, which is why we prioritise supportive and inclusive learning environments.

Our small group settings encourage collaborative learning and allow each individual to express themselves while feeling valued and understood.

FINANCIAL SUPPORT & BURSARIES You can apply for a bursary to help towards attending the course. If eligible this can help in paying for travel by public transport, or support with petrol expenses, and lunch. The full amount is based on individual need and circumstance, which will be assessed at the start of the course.

Speak to a member of staff to find out how a bursary could work for you.

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Who is GAPS for?

You must be aged between 16 – 18 years Or aged between 16 – 24 years and have a current Educational, health & care plan (EHCP) You must be able to provide valid identification prior to enrolment (passport/birth certificate) No formal qualifications are required as we will assess level of learning prior to enrolment taking into consideration previous qualification achievements

16-18 and 16-24 with an EHCP

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What is a Study Programme?

At TCHC, your study programme will be individual and tailor made to fit your specific needs.

Your programme will be up to 38 weeks depending on your start date and the days you attend the centre will be confirmed upon enrolment.

1.

Vocational Aim

You will achieve a nationally recognised qualification in the subject of your choice.

2.

Functional Skills Maths & English

Maths and English are essential skills required by employers.

3.

Personal Development & Work Skills

You will be given extra support to help you progress in life.

Participating in a study programme can greatly enhance your future by equipping you with essential skills and experiences.

During your time at GAPS we will help you explore career paths through work placements and guide you on how to get there.

4.

Work Experience

You will have the opportunity to go on work experience and gain skills ready for work.

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START YOUR JOURNEY What is a vocational course?

A vocational course is a training programme that focuses more on practical work, rather than traditional academic exams.

At Dunstable GAPS, we offer the following vocational courses:

Business & Retail Construction Painting & Decorating Health & Care Independence Skills Our dedicated staff are committed to equipping you with the essential skills needed to achieve your qualifications and excel in your career and future.

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I love coming here and learning new things.

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Business & Retail Award/Certificate/Diploma in Business & Retail - Entry Level 3 and Level 1 Certificate/Diploma in Business Administration - Level 2 This programme is tailored towards teaching the skills and knowledge required to apply and progress into business and retail opportunities.

The course will be delivered both practically and classroom based enabling learners to experience real opportunities and tasks within the industry.

WHAT WILL I LEARN? Communication skills for work Working in retail Handling stock in a retail environment Handling telephone calls Health and safety in the workplace Understanding how to work as part of a team in retail Customer service skills Learning and understanding business processes and systems Exploring entrepreneurship Applying for a job Course trips and events Guest speakers English & maths Functional Skills is included alongside this study programme.

WHAT JOBS CAN YOU DO Business Administrator Marketing Assistant Salesperson Customer Service Assistant Finance Assistant

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I feel really supported and the lessons are helping me get the qualifications I need.

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Construction Level 1 Award/Certificate/Extended Certificate/Diploma in Construction Skills This programme is tailored towards teaching the skills and knowledge required to apply and progress into construction and trade opportunities.

The course will be delivered both practically and classroom based enabling learners to experience real opportunities and tasks within the industry.

What will I learn?

Introduction to health and safety in construction Constructing halving joints Painting a panel door Tiling a plain wall Fixing architrave and skirting Painting and wallpapering Painting techniques Constructing angled halving joints Applying wallpaper to internal & external corners and painting skirting Constructing bridle joints Applying decorative effects Constructing housing joints Constructing through mortice & tenon joints Constructing stub mortice & tenon joints English & maths Functional Skills is included alongside this study programme.

WHAT JOBS CAN YOU DO Painter & Decorator, Carpenter, Tiler, Plasterer, Bricklayer, Plumber, Electrician, Surveyor, Labourer, Roofer, Scaffolder, Architect and Civil Engineer.

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Painting & Decorating Level 2 Certificate/Award in Painting & Decorating This programme is tailored towards teaching the skills and knowledge required to apply and progress into painting and decorating.

The course will be delivered both practically and classroom based enabling learners to experience real opportunities and tasks within the industry.

WHAT WILL I LEARN? Painting and decorating Painting a panel door Introduction to health and safety in construction Introduction to construction industry English & maths Functional Skills is included alongside this study programme.

WHAT JOBS CAN YOU DO Painter & Decorator, Carpenter, Tiler, Plasterer, Bricklayer, Plumber, Electrician, Surveyor, Labourer, Roofer, Scaffolder, Architect and Civil Engineer.

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Health & Care Entry Level 3 to Level 2 Award/Certificate/Diploma in Health & Care This programme is tailored towards teaching the skills and knowledge required to apply and progress into health and care opportunities.

The course will be delivered both practically and classroom based enabling learners to experience real opportunities and tasks within the industry.

WHAT WILL I LEARN? Learn about different care environments Meet industry professionals Course trips and events Guest speakers Learn communication and teamwork skills specific to the care sector Identify potential careers in the care sector Safeguarding within care Types of services within the care sector How to support patients/clients effectively Recognise the importance of healthy eating for patients/clients Supporting in health, social care, children’s and young people’s settings Infection prevention and control Introduction to mental health English & maths Functional Skills is included alongside this study programme.

WHAT JOBS CAN YOU DO Registered Nurse, Social Worker, Child Protective Services Worker, Family Support Worker, Residential Care Worker, Youth Worker, Childcare Worker and Early Childhood Educator 17

Independence Skills Progression Level 1 Certificate in Progression This programme is tailored towards teaching the skills and knowledge required to progress into adulthood.

The course will be delivered both practically and classroom based enabling learners to experience real opportunities and tasks within the industry.

WHAT WILL I LEARN? Personal budgeting Communication and language techniques Study skills Improve personal manner and conduct Healthy living Personal skills Travel training and street safety Personal presentation Take part in community projects Personal safety Managing problems Developing personal confidence Understanding assertiveness Managing and coping with change Developing and maintaining friendships and relationships Decision making Developing resilience skills Exploring equality and diversity English & maths Functional Skills is included alongside this study programme.

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FUNCTIONAL SKILLS English & maths Functional skills provide essential knowledge, skills, and understanding that will enable you to confidently, effectively, and independently progress in life and work.

As a GAPs learner, you will have the opportunity to work towards achieving maths and English qualifications with a suitably qualified tutor through a personalised learning plan.

We use a practical approach when teaching maths and English. Our tutors will help you apply what you have learnt to everyday tasks and problems.

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Did you know?

It is impossible to go a day without using English and maths skills!

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Personal Development & Work Skills Personal & social development sessions Employability skills - CV building and interview techniques and tips Independent living Fundamental British Values Keeping safe and healthy Work experience opportunities Mental wellbeing Engaging in group activities 1-to-1 IAG support and guidance

TCHC has improved my education immensely, I now have a routine and plans for the future.

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Work Experience Why do work experience?

Employers are always looking for learners who have had work experience.

You will have the opportunity to undertake work experience in different formats: Block work experience Extended work experience Taster days

What will I learn?

Customer service and communication skills Commercial awareness for your place of work Working on tasks and managing yourself Teamwork Time management How to use initiative Use of functional skills Accepting responsibility

What will I get out of it?

Through having a positive work experience you will be able to use this on your CV; gain a reference and have experiences to talk about in interviews for employment or apprenticeships.

If a vacancy became available at the placement, you could apply if the role is suitable.

Your experience would be related to what your career aspirations are, in relations to your studies.

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GOOD ATTENDANCE MEANS BEING IN THE CENTRE AT LEAST 95% OF THE TIME... OR HAVING NO MORE THAN 10 DAYS OFF!

DON’T BOOK APPOINTMENTS DURING SESSION TIME!

EDUCATION + ATTENDANCE + EFFORT =

ENDLESS POSSIBLITIES! 23

0 DAYS

ABSENCE 100% Attendance

19 DAYS

ABSENCE

More time in the centre means more time to learn, develop & grow!

Less time in the centre means less time to become the very best you!

DAYS

ABSENCE 80% Attendance

DAYS

ABSENCE 95% Attendance

29 DAYS

ABSENCE 85% Attendance

90% Attendance

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10

Poor attendance means less chances in life!

47 DAYS

ABSENCE 75% Attendance

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Learner A BACKGROUND Learner A was referred to GAPS by his previous school. He previously held the belief that education was tedious and invaluable. Prior to joining GAPS, he had achieved GCSEs in Maths and English but had not participated in any work experience.

SUPPORT FROM TCHC At GAPS, Learner A has started a construction course which he thought was appropriate as he wants to go into construction after he finishes with education.

SUPPORT FROM TCHC Learner A says he has learnt a lot about the construction industry and cannot wait to complete his course. He has felt more comfortable learning in the GAPS environment and the tutors have helped him communicate with others more effectively.

Learner B BACKGROUND Learner B was introduced to GAPS by his previous school. He didn't like education at school because he didn't get the support he required. Learner B feels that there were too many people in the classrooms.

SUPPORT FROM TCHC At GAPS Learner B feels that he was supported through 1-2-1 sessions.

SUPPORT FROM TCHC Learner B is working towards qualifications in both English and maths and Business & Retail. Their confidence has grown and they feel more comfortable speaking and working with other learners.

LEARNER CASE STUDIES 25

WORDS FROM PARENTS/CARERS “I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for the exceptional staff at GAPS. As the parent of an autistic young person who has faced significant challenges in his educational journey, I am incredibly pleased to see the positive transformation he is experiencing since joining this provision. The dedication, understanding, and unwavering commitment shown by the team have made a remarkable difference for him.

The holistic approach at GAPS, is something truly special.

I believe it is removing barriers to learning and offering young people a pathway not only to educational success but also to improving their family well-being. I am confident that their approach will continue to have a profound impact on the lives of the young people they serve.”

“The staff at GAPS have been amazingly supportive, encouraging and empowering our daughter to succeed!

They have been amazing!

We have our daughter back!”

“Since Abbie joined GAPS her independence and confidence has grown beyond what we could imagine.

“It's a safe environment that understands my child’s learning needs.”

Abbie’s future looks far brighter, and we cannot thank the staff enough for helping her believe in herself.”

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FAQs FOR LEARNERS

Q: How do I apply for a course?

A: Within the prospectus, you will see your options on page 2, or call us and we will help you through the process.

Q: How many days a week will I attend?

A: Depending on your course, this could be 3 or 4 days a week.

Q: What happens at the end of my course?

A: Your tutors will be supporting you through the year with the IAG adviser. They will work with you to develop a progression plan through the year so you can see your options for when your course finishes.

Q: Where can I go for lunch?

A: You have the option to eat your own lunch within the communal areas or you can have a separate room. In some cases, lunch can be provided. If you want to buy lunch there are local amenities close by.

Q: Can I have a part-time job and still attend GAPS? A: While on your programme, you will be able to work part-time around your programme days.

Q: Are there any bursaries available to me?

A: You may be eligible for a bursary while in education, this will enable you to have support in the following areas: travel, free lunch and clothing for interviews.

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Q: How will I be kept informed about my young person's progress?

A: You will also be able to discuss your young person's progress at reviews you will be invited to throughout the year.

Q: What if my young person cannot attend the centre?

A: Call the centre and speak with the centre coordinator/centre manager and inform them with the reason of absence.

You can also send a text message or email to inform the following: Name and reason for not attending (centre coordinator/administrator will follow up with a call).

Q: What happens if my young person is being bullied or harassed?

A: The centre will not tolerate bullying or harassment. Learners should inform their personal tutor, safeguarding champion or the centre manager.

You can email dunstable.gaps@tchc.net or safeguarding@tchc.net

FAQs FOR PARENTS/CARERS

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HOW TO FIND US Dunstable GAPS 47 Edward Street, Dunstable, Bedfordshire, LU6 1HE

Call 01582 310030 07873 619504

Email

dunstable.gaps@tchc.net

www.tchc.net