Why your College should be offering Study Programmes

9 Sep 2019 02:32 PM

The introduction of Study Programmes in 2013 was a Department of Education (DfE) initiative to ensure individualised learning and work placement opportunities for 16-19 learners and to enhance future success and employability.

Designed to complement both vocational and academic pathways, Study Programmes can truly fit around the preferred learning methods of each learner and be designed to meet individual learner needs and career goals.

Study Programmes are made up of key components and provide flexibility and choice to improve learner outcomes:

• core qualification – a substantial level 2 or 3 qualification with high GLH and UCAS points
• additionality qualifications – smaller qualifications designed to complement learning and enhance transferrable skills and confidence
• supporting qualifications – from employability to Functional Skills in English and maths, giving learners the best chance of success
• work experience – to get learners career-ready.

An Ofsted Level 2 Study Programme report from November 2018 highlighted that each year around 900,000 students aged 16-18 take level 3 qualifications, and around 170,000 take level 2 qualifications. The report highlighted that while there are fewer level 2 than level 3 students, curriculum design is exceptionally important to this group and that their ‘lifelong employability’ depends on their teachers’ ability to direct their education into a subject that stimulates them’.

This makes Study Programmes a great choice, they’re designed to create breadth and depth for learners, without limiting future options, and maximising progression.

Not only are Study Programmes designed around a learners’ individual needs, they can, and should be, tied in to local employability opportunities to increase employability prospects of learners and provide better prospects for their future.

NCFE Study Programmes

NCFE Study Programmes meet the requirements of the DfE and cover a range of subjects to support flexibility and choice for learners. They are supported by high-quality learning resources – including blended programmes of learning and diagnostic tools. These resources are designed to improve delivery and give learners the best chance of success.

We offer a variety of substantial qualifications in a range of subjects, as well as a range of Applied General qualifications that offer performance points aimed at post-16 learners. Take a look at the different components of our Study Programmes.

For more information on NCFE Study Programmes and to find out how they can work within your organisation, visit our website, or contact us.

Already offering NCFE’s Study Programmes?

What elements of a Study Programme do you find enhances learning?

What benefits have you experienced within your centre, since offering Study Programmes?