2627 Dunstable GAPS Prospectus

TCHC DUNSTABLE

2026/27

GAPS CENTRE

TCHC DUNSTABLE GAPS

COURSE GUIDE

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

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REGISTER YOUR INTEREST!

To apply online visit www.tchc.net

How to apply

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About TCHC

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How we support you

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Financial Support & Bursaries

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OFSTED

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What is a study programme?

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Entry requirements and eligibility

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Your Pathway

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Vocational courses

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Business & Retail

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Construction

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Future Skills

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Health & Care

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Painting & Decorating

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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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Words from learners

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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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→ CONTENTS Contact details

Explore

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OUR POSITIVE VALUES Pursuing excellence, Openness, Supporting each other, Instilling confidence, Transformational, Leadership, Inspirational, Valuing diversity, Empowering others

About TCHC

Transforming lives since 2004

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WHO ARE TCHC? TCHC is an Ofsted Good provider who have supported local communities across Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Greater London, Peterborough and Suffolk for 21 years. We have helped over 500,000 learners progress into better opportunities.

WHAT IS GAPS? At Dunstable GAPS, we use a range of teaching and learning techniques to support our learners with SEND. Our team considers individual needs when planning their curriculum and provide tailored resources and instructions in each lesson. We use regular assessments on progress and collaborate with other professionals to ensure individual success.

Set within the local community, we pride ourselves on the nurturing, calm and positive environment our centre provides which helps us to get the best out of our learners.

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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 6

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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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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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.

WHO IS GAPS FOR?

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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

YOUR PATHWAY Taking part in a study programme can make a real difference to your future by helping you develop valuable skills and gain meaningful experience.

During your time at GAPS, we’ll support you in exploring different career pathways through work placements and guide you on the steps needed to achieve your goals.

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VOCATIONAL AIM You will work towards achieving a nationally recognised qualification in the vocational subject of your choice.

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FUNCTIONAL SKILLS MATHS & ENGLISH

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PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT & WORK SKILLS

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Maths and English are essential skills valued by employers across all industries, helping you communicate clearly and solve problems.

You will be given extra support to build confidence and develop the skills needed to succeed in everyday life and the workplace.

WORK EXPERIENCE You will have the opportunity to take part in work experience and develop the skills needed to be work-ready.

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It has given me skills and knowledge to use in the future jobs and careers endeavours.

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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 Future Skills Health & Care Painting & Decorating 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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BUSINESS & RETAIL This study programme is designed to develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to progress into business and retail careers. Learners will gain a strong foundation for employment, further training, or progression within the industry.

The programme is delivered through a blend of practical activities and classroom-based learning, giving learners hands-on experience of real workplace tasks and industry opportunities.

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 and Finance Assistant.

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CONSTRUCTION This programme is designed to give learners the practical skills and knowledge needed to start a career in construction, building trades, or maintenance.

Learners will develop hands-on skills while learning how the construction industry works, including health and safety practices, tools, and materials used in everyday jobs.

Through a combination of practical tasks and classroom learning, learners will gain confidence, learn industry techniques, and build the foundation for further training or employment in construction.

WHAT WILL I LEARN? Halving joints (woodwork) Drain, remove & replace radiators Installing guttering Painting and decorating Painting a panel door Wiring ring main plugs Connecting appliances 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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FUTURE SKILLS The Future Skills (Progression) qualification is ideal for learners who wish to develop their confidence and knowledge in essential and extensive life skills, become more familiar with how to navigate society, experience a balance of classroom learning with practical hands-on learning or have the opportunity to become better prepared for future education, employment and training opportunities.

WHAT WILL I LEARN? Personal budgeting Communication and language techniques Study skills Improve personal manner and conduct Healthy living Home cooking skills 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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HEALTH & CARE This Health and Care programme is designed to help learners develop the essential skills and knowledge needed to progress into employment, further training, or apprenticeships within the care sector. Learners will build confidence, enhance their employability skills, and gain an understanding of the wide range of health and social care opportunities available in their local area.

Through a combination of practical activities, workshops, and tailored guidance, learners will develop the knowledge, behaviours, and hands-on experience required to succeed in health and care settings or continue into further study.

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.

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PAINTING & DECORATING This programme is designed to give learners the practical skills and knowledge needed for a career in painting, decorating, or building trades. Learners will develop hands-on skills while learning about materials, tools, and health and safety practices used in the industry.

Through practical activities and classroom learning, learners will gain confidence and build the foundation for further training or work in painting and decorating.

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 Interior Painter, Exterior Painter, Commercial Painter, Residential Decorator, Industrial Coatings Applicator, Spray Painter and Wallpaper Installer.

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Since starting at GAPS, my confidence has grown a lot and I feel more positive about my future now.

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ENGLISH & MATHS

FUNCTIONAL SKILLS Functional Skills help you build the knowledge, confidence, and practical ability you need to succeed in everyday life and the workplace.

As a GAPs learner, you’ll have the chance to work towards maths and English qualifications with support from a suitably qualified tutor. Your learning will follow a personalised plan designed around your goals and starting point.

We teach maths and English in a practical, hands-on way. Our tutors help you use what you learn in real situations, from everyday tasks to problem-solving at work.

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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 At TCHC GAPS we will support you in developing the personal, social, and life skills needed for everyday living, further learning, and future employment.

You will build confidence, independence, and wellbeing while receiving guidance and support tailored to their individual needs.

WHAT WILL I LEARN? You will develop important skills and knowledge, including: Personal and social development sessions Employability skills, including CV building and interview techniques Independent living skills Understanding Fundamental British Values Keeping safe and healthy Opportunities to take part in work experience Developing positive mental wellbeing Engaging in group activities and teamwork Access to 1-to-1 IAG support and guidance

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WORK EXPERIENCE WHY DO WORK EXPERIENCE? Work experience will allow you to prepare for the world of work and develop skills that employers value. It will allow you to build confidence, understand workplace expectations, and gain experience that can support future employment, training, or apprenticeships.

It will allow you to take part in work experience in different formats, including: 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? Having a positive work experience will allow you to: Add valuable experience to your CV Gain a reference from an employer Build examples to talk about in interviews for jobs or apprenticeships If a suitable vacancy becomes available during your placement, you may be able to apply for the role. 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! 24

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!

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ABSENCE 80% Attendance

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ABSENCE 95% Attendance

29 DAYS

ABSENCE 85% Attendance

90% Attendance

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Poor attendance means less chances in life!

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ABSENCE 75% Attendance

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WORDS FROM OUR LEARNERS. “The centre is great for people struggling with anxiety problems, you don't feel forced to speak to people but also feel comfortable to do so.”

“Since the first day, I have felt comfortable in this centre and well supported in not only my work but my future career choices as well.”

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“I have enjoyed learning in a way that helps me understand.”

LUKE “The staff always push you to be the best that you can be.”

STANLEY

PAIGE

CHARLIE

“I am proud of my progress in math and English, and I am also proud of the social interactions I've had which have helped with my anxiety.”

MYLES

“My tutors make the work tailored to me and i am building my confidence within every lesson.”

WILLIAM

“The college has been excellent since my daughter started all staff are helpful her tutor is excellent too. The college have a really relaxed atmosphere. She has settled in really well so glad I changed her college can see a big difference in my daughter.”

“GAPS has truly been a positive turning point in my daughter’s life. Her confidence has grown, her social skills have improved and she now knows with hard work she can have a future regardless of her disabilities.”

“The staff at the centre have been incredibly supportive to my daughter (and myself).”

“Without GAPS, my son would have been lost. The staff are exceptional and supportive of his individual needs. We cannot praise them enough. Parent of learner at Peterborough GAPS.”

“GAPS has changed our daughters life. She had a terrible experience at a previous college due to bullying. Her confidence, self-esteem and mental health was at rock bottom. The staff at GAPS have been amazingly supportive, encouraging and empowering our daughter to succeed! They have been amazing!

We have our daughter back!”

“Staff are friendly, helpful and kind.

The small group, adult supervision, support and encouragement has been of so much benefit to our child.

We wish more young people had the opportunity to learn in this type of environment which is obviously far more conducive to learning and wellbeing than mainstream education provision or many children.”

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FAQs FOR LEARNERS

How do I apply for a course?

You can apply by scanning this QR code or alternatively head over to www.tchc.net and click the ‘Quick Apply’ button in the corner of the screen.

How many days a week will I attend?

Depending on your course, you will usually attend 3 or 4 days per week.

Your timetable will include classroom learning, practical sessions, and, where applicable, work experience.

What happens at the end of my course?

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.

Where can I go for lunch?

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.

Can I have a part-time job and still attend GAPS? Yes, you can work part-time alongside your programme, as long as it fits around your scheduled course days.

Are there any bursaries available to me?

You may be eligible for a bursary while in education. This can provide support with travel costs, free meals, and clothing for interviews.

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FAQs FOR PARENTS

How will my young person be supported?

Learners receive support from tutors, subject specialists, and the IAG adviser. They also have access to 1-to-1 guidance to help with learning, progression, and personal development.

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

We provide regular updates through progress reports, parent/carer meetings, and communication with tutors to keep you informed about your young person’s learning and achievements.

What if my young person cannot attend the centre?

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.

How do you help with career planning?

Learners work with our IAG adviser to create a progression plan, exploring courses, apprenticeships, and local employment opportunities that match their goals.

What safety measures are in place?

All our sites follow strict health and safety policies, safeguarding procedures, and risk assessments. Learners are guided on safe practice in classrooms, workshops, and any work experience placements.

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

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

You can email dunstable.gaps@tchc.net or safeguarding@tchc.net 29

CONTACT

47 Edward Street, Dunstable, Bedfordshire, LU6 1HE 01582 310030 07873 619504 dunstable.gaps@tchc.net www.tchc.net