Peterborough GAPS Centre - 2025/26 Prospectus

GAPS CENTRE TCHC PETERBOROUGH

TCHC PETERBOROUGH GAPS COURSE GUIDE

2025/26

Contents

1

How to apply

2

About TCHC

4

How we support you

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OFSTED

7

Financial Support & Bursaries

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Entry requirements and eligibility

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What is a study programme?

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Vocational courses

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Business & Retail

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Childcare

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Health & Care

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Skills for Life

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Steps to Work

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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

01733 304142 or email peterborough.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 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? TCHCs GAPS centres give access to a variety of study programmes to support entry into further education and work.

Our centres provide a nurturing and supportive approach to learning, allowing our learners to achieve their best.

TCHC provide fully inclusive education ensuring all learning needs are met using a diverse range of teaching and learning resources and approaches. At our GAPS centres, you will find a calm, positive culture which encourages success for all individuals who 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 portfolio based work rather than traditional academic exams.

At Peterborough GAPS, we offer the following vocational courses:

Business & Retail Childcare Health & Care Skills for Life Steps to Work 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 in Business & Retail Entry Level 3 and Level 1 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, work skills, personal social development and work experience are included alongside this study programme.

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

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Childcare Award/Certificate/Diploma in Childcare Entry Level 3 and Level 1 This programme is tailored towards teaching the skills and knowledge required to apply and progress into childcare and early years 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? Communicating with children Working in early years settings Craft activities for young children Encouraging young children to eat healthily Routinies for a young child Healthy eating for families Introduction to the physical care of babies and young children Preparing food for and feeding babies English & maths Functional Skills, work skills, personal social development and work experience are included alongside this study programme.

WHAT JOBS CAN YOU DO Nursery Nurse Childcare Worker Nursery Manager Early Childhood Education Specialist Family Support Worker Nanny Special Education Teacher

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

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Health & Care Certificate in Health & Care - Level 2 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? Person-centred approaches in health and social care Working in health and social care Basic first aid principles Health/social care project Introduction to learning disability Team work in health, social care or children’s and young peoples settings English & maths Functional Skills, work skills, personal social development and work experience are included alongside this study programme.

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

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Skills for Life Skills for Independent Living Certificate and Extended Certificate Entry Level 1 to Level 1 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? Starting out on a new learning experience Knowing how you learn Identifying own starting point Following instructions Being part of a group Understanding relationships Contributing to the community Handling money Personal safety Healthy eating Using social and leisure facilities English & maths Functional Skills, work skills, personal social development and work experience are included alongside this study programme.

WHAT JOBS CAN YOU DO This course will help you build skills and gain the confidence to make decisions about your next steps.

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Steps to Work Steps to Work is tailored towards individuals who want to dive straight into work experience opportunities.

This programme will give you the chance to successfully find a work experience placement as well as gaining functional skills English and maths.

What will my week look like?

The days are divided between attending the centre and your work placement of choice.

When in the centre, you will focus on core subjects such as math and English, alongside receiving support in work skills and personal and social development, which are designed to enhance your overall employability and personal growth.

When at your work placement, you will gain practical experience and apply your learning in real-world settings.

English & maths Functional Skills, work skills, personal social development and work experience are included alongside this study programme.

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“I’ve learned so much since doing Steps to Work, and I know it will help me get a fulltime job in the future.”

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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 peterborough.gaps@tchc.net or safeguarding@tchc.net

FAQs FOR PARENTS/CARERS

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HOW TO FIND US Peterborough GAPS Market Chambers, 2nd Floor, Cathedral Square, Peterborough, PE1 1XW

Call 01733 304142 07803 243266 07834 173347

Email

peterborough.gaps@tchc.net

www.tchc.net