Pathways
Intent
The Pathways curriculum is specifically designed to enable pupils to develop transferable skills that will support them Post 16.
Through both Pathway Vocational (Tutor Pathway- Introductory to Vocational Studies, Career and Work-related learning) and Pathway Specialist (Moving Pathway-Options/Specialist Courses), pupils will develop skills for life which will allow them to achieve their maximum independence possible enabling them to contribute to the wider society. The curriculum is built around the needs of our students with an emphasis on engagement, developing independence and preparation for adulthood. Pathway courses are individualised and aim to be motivating, relevant, broad, and balanced as well as supportive and aspirational.
Implementation
As pupils progress into Hills and Rivers at Sutton School, they will be provided with the opportunity to study a range of BTEC and associated courses appropriate to their needs and specific areas of interest. These courses are in addition to the core subjects of English, Maths, Computing and Science and provide an opportunity to work towards further qualifications.
As either a one or a three-year course, Pathways provide a rich, varied and relevant curriculum which equips pupils with the practical skills to live and work successfully in the wider community.
Pathway Vocational - (Tutor Pathway- Introductory to Vocational Studies, Career and Work-related learning)
Pupils spend four lessons per week studying Pathway Vocational lessons with their class teacher. During this time, pupils explore a broad range of work sectors whilst working towards gaining an award, certificate, or diploma in ‘Introductory to Vocational Studies’.
Careers and Work-Related Learning are also included within this time to support opportunities for pupils to develop skills in creating personal progression plans, organisation, time management and team skills.
This course is studied over a three-year period. We provide three qualifications within our Pathway Vocational (Introductory to Vocational Studies, Career and Work-related learning):
BTEC Level 1 Introductory to Vocational Studies (Award/Certificate/Diploma)
BTEC Entry 3 Introductory to Vocational Studies (Award/Certificate/Extended Certificate)
ASDAN Entry Level Personal Progress (Award/Certificate/Diploma)
These courses are specifically designed to broaden pupils’ interests and enable pupils to experience work related learning, gain knowledge in the work of work and develop transferable skills that will support them post 16.
Pathway Specialist (Moving Pathway-Options /Specialist Courses)
Our Pathway Specialist courses allow the opportunity to specialise in a specific subject area of interest to them, develop existing talents and interests and discover new ones which promote the highest levels of inclusion for all.
We currently deliver courses in the following subject areas:
Art and Design
Construction
Creative Media and Performing Arts
Hair and Beauty
Humanities
Land Based Studies
Motor Vehicles Studies
Sport
Our bespoke curriculum recognise that pupils may have an interest in more than one of these options and they will therefore be provided with a chance to study a range of subject options, that are well matched to student interests and ambitions.
(For further information regarding course areas, please see curriculum subjects.)
Impact
Pupils access a bespoke curriculum which is tailored to their interest and need.
Pupils gain a range of opportunities and experiences to allow pupils to progress to post 16 with confidence, aspiration and recognition of their achievements.
Pupils gain vocational qualifications at a level appropriate to their ability.
Pupils leave school with at least one vocational qualification.
English, Maths and ICT is supported through cross curriculum.
High expectations and challenge in order to build pupils’ self-belief and positive learning behaviours which raise aspirations to ensure that pupils reach their full potential.
Careers and work-related learning support pupils with their transition for further education.
Study Highlights
Within all courses, pupils will have the chance to take part in a range of exciting trips and workshops associated with the area of study and experience work-related learning both in and outside of the classroom. They will have the opportunity to visit places of business within different industries and spend time with experienced professionals to gain an insight into the world of work.
Possible Qualifications
WJEC Entry Level 2/3 Humanities
BTEC Level 1 Land Based Studies
BTEC Level 1/WJEC Entry Level 2/3 Creative Media and Performing Arts
BTEC Level 1/WJEC Entry Level 2/3 Art and Design
BTEC Level 1/WJEC Entry Level 2/3 Sport
BTEC Level 1/WJEC Entry Level 2/3 Motor Vehicles Studies
BTEC Level 1/WJEC Entry Level 2/3 Construction
BTEC Level 1/WJEC Entry Level 2/3 Hair and Beauty
BTEC Entry Level Pre-Vocational Studies
ASDAN Entry Level Personal Progress
FAQ
If my child does not like their Pathway Specialist course, can they change?
Pupils will be placed on a course appropriate to their needs and interests and this will be guided by their parents/carers and class teacher. We encourage all pupils to take part in courses and have a go at the different elements of the course. Should there be issues which cannot be solved, we will work with pupils to find a suitable solution.
Pupils will have the opportunity to study a variety of courses across the three years.
What level are the courses?
Courses range from Entry Level 1 through to GCSE. Pupils will be placed on a course level appropriate to their needs and abilities. Pupils will be supported throughout the course to gain a qualification at an appropriate level, regardless of which level they are studying at.
Will my child get the opportunity to study more than one course?
Yes. Pupils access Pathways from Year 9 and will have the opportunity to study more than one course throughout Hills and Rivers.
What specialist teaching equipment is there?
As pupils continue their journey into upper school, they will have greater access to specialist teaching rooms such as a science laboratory, Life Skills room, outdoor forest school, hair and beauty salon, construction room, Performing Arts Hub and a motor vehicle studies room.
Can my child choose the same specialist course each year?
The Pathway curriculum is designed to broaden pupils’ experiences and skills. Therefore, we would encourage pupils to work towards a different qualification each year.
How do I select my child’s preferred option?
Parents and carers will receive an information pack and an invite to a Pathway Meeting during the Summer Term. During this meeting, pupils and parents/carers, will have the opportunity to learn all about the Pathways Curriculum and take a look at our specialist courses in action! Following this, pupils will be asked to select their three preferred choices.
Will my child be allocated their first choice?
We aim to allocate pupils with their first choice; however, we cannot always guarantee this. Class sizes are smaller to accommodate the practical elements of the course and ensure pupils can work safely. If we are initially unable to offer your child their first choice, they will have the opportunity to study their first choice during their time in Hills and Rivers
When will I find out the course my child is studying?
A ParentMail will be sent out during the Summer Term to confirm the course your child will be studying during the next academic year.
Will my child take part in work experience?
All pupils in Hills and Rivers have the opportunity to take part in work experience, each year. This means by the time they leave they should have at least 3 experiences of the workplace.
Can I still visit the college with my child for open days?
Yes, we encourage this, in order for you to have the opportunity to see where your child may study and ask any questions you have. The main purpose of our visits is to allow your child to see the campus how it will be when they attend college and get an idea if this is the right place for them.