TCHC WATFORD GAPS Prospectus - 24/25

TCHC WATFORD

GAPS CENTRE

2024/25 Course Guide

How to Apply Please apply online at www.tchc.net or by scanning the QR code and filling out the Expression of Interest form.

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

01923 975223 or email watford.gaps@tchc.net

Register your interest!

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Contents How to Apply...................................................................................................................... 1 About TCHC........................................................................................................................ 3 Inclusivity and support.................................................................................................. 5 Bursaries.............................................................................................................................. 6 Entry requirements and eligibility............................................................................ 7 What is a study programme?.................................................................................... 8 Vocational courses........................................................................................................ 9 Business & Retail...................................................................................................... 11 Future Skills................................................................................................................. 12 Functional Skills English and maths....................................................................... 13 Personal development & work skills....................................................................... 15 Work experience............................................................................................................. 16 Attendance....................................................................................................................... 17 FAQs for learners............................................................................................................ 21 FAQs for parents/carers.............................................................................................. 22 Contact details................................................................................................................ 23

To apply online visit www.tchc.net

About 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.

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.

“I’ve learnt so much and feel really supported.”

Supportive & nurturing environment

Study programmes are tailored to your needs and ambitions 3

“TCHC have given me the best support and the grades I need for life!”

Small class sizes

1-2-1

SUPPORT

“The tutors a re amazing and they rea lly care about our su ccess."

ce has n e id f n o c y “M uch.” grown so m 4

INCLUSIVITY and SUPPORT Your support requirements will be determined upon enrolment Tutor support Learning support assistants Careers, Information, Advice and Guidance Wellbeing TCHC works to effectively include 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 At TCHC we embed preparing for adulthood objectives to support individuals developing their independence.

TCHC GAPS provides a personalised and flexible programme of support, which is updated regularly, to give our learners a positive learning experience. All courses will be accredited through National Awarding Bodies.

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“Staff are friendly and welcoming and cater to your needs.”

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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Entry Requirements & Eligibility 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 38 weeks long and the days you attend the centre will be confirmed upon enrolment.

Your study programme is made up of 4 elements

1.

Vocational Aim

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

3.

Personal Development & Work Skills

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

2.

Functional Skills Maths & English

Maths and English are essential skills required by employers.

4.

Work Experience

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

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Vocational Courses What is a vocational course?

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

At Watford GAPS, we offer the following vocational courses:

Business & Retail Future 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.

“I’ve learnt so much on this course, it’s been fun to learn new skills.”

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Business & Retail Entry Level 3 & Level 1 Award/Certificate/Extended Certificate/Diploma in Business & Retail 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.

Career Paths Business Administrator, Marketing Assistant, Salesperson, Customer Service Assistant and Finance Assistant.

“The training I have received has made me become more interactive.”

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Future Skills Progression & Life Skills - Entry Level 2 or 3 & 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?

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.

Did you know?

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

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Travel Training

Get ready for the FUTURE

Personal Development & Work Skills Personal & social development sessions Employability / independent living Fundamental British Values Keeping safe and healthy Opportunity for work experience Mental wellbeing 15

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 = 17

ENDLESS POSSIBLITIES!

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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I had difficulties with maths and English lessons in school, but since joining GAPS, I feel I've learnt a lot and am much more confident."

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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 1, 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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FAQs

for Parents/Carers

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

A: Progress reports will be available during the course of the year. 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 watford.gaps@tchc.net or safeguarding@tchc.net

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When I first joined, I was a ball of anger. I hated education and the world. The staff at the centre took time to listen and get to know me and would allow me to have time to myself to think. Over time I gradually started to manage my anger and felt more comfortable.

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s u d n i f o t How

Watford GAPS Ground Floor, 21 Station Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 1AP

Call 01923 975223

Email watford.gaps@tchc.net www.tchc.net