An inclusive environment in which to communicate, develop and learn
We develop life skills through a variety of enrichment activities, social opportunities and work experience. This includes our social enterprise project which is run at Common Leys Farm.
All courses enable students to further develop relevant English and maths skills, and where appropriate, students will have the opportunity to access a variety of therapeutic care, such as Speech & Language (SALT), Physio and Occupational Therapy (OT).
The Pathways department is like its own small community, where you will make new friends, discover new interests, go on exciting trips and have a lot of fun along the way. We can't wait for you to come and join us!
Celebrating student achievements!
Our Pathways students have made it to the Lord’s Taverners Table Cricket Finals at Lord’s Cricket Ground for the last 2 years – the winning trophy has been just out of reach, but we remain determined to win it one day!
WikiMe
The College has invested in the digital learning tool, WikiMe. It allows students to upload videos and images, set goals and more importantly set up a circle of friends, all in a safe and secure setting. Pathways 2 students are so proficient with the tool that they show students from Pathway 1 how to use it!
The software also allows staff to set goals, to evidence tasks being completed and even message students off-site on work experience to be able to update progress.
Building confidence and becoming more independent through learning
Our Pathways programme is designed specifically for young people with a range of SEN needs who currently have an EHCP.
On Pathways, there is support at every point of your journey, with transition workers here to make that change from school as smooth as possible. There are 3 different Pathway routes:
- Communication – for those with profound and multiple learning difficulties, who depend on adults for all their care needs.
- Independence –focusing primarily on consolidating independent living skills and developing academic and communication skills.
- Employability – focusing on developing the necessary skills needed for future employment opportunities.
Finding the right route for you will help to build your confidence and set you on the path to achieving your goals!
Did you know?
Jack
Previous school:
Fitzwaryn School
Jack joined our Pathways course in Abingdon in 2016, after leaving Sixth Form at Fitzwaryn School.
Jack grew in maturity and confidence during his time at the College and remains a highly motivated and enthusiastic learner. He achieved his first Functional Skills maths qualification and planned to carry on moving up levels.
He worked very hard on his communication with peers and other college users and confidently used the canteen facilities to buy himself lunch or a drink.
He was supported by our job coach to secure a meaningful work placement, which will help him fulfil his aspirations.
Elliott
Previous school:
Fitzwaryn School
My tutor is amazing and all the staff are kind. The College is great; I like using Costa and I always get hot chocolates!
The lessons are things like spelling and grammar which I enjoy, we do quizzes and also cooking, making cakes, pizza, meals using Quorn and a Theme of the Week.
My favourite part is going to Common Leys Farm on Mondays for the Propeller Project. We do outdoor things like planting flowers, woodwork and animal care.
CJ
Previous school:
St Gregory the Great School
The support is good and there are lots of teachers for each student. They are nice and helpful, and they make the lessons interesting and fun. The class size is smaller too so it is quieter.
I'm getting a LASER qualification and I feel like I'm increasing my confidence being on this course. We are treated more like adults and I have more responsibility and choices.
We also get to go on trips and do activities like tennis, which I really enjoy.
Your future career
Progressing from a Pathways programme can lead to getting a part- or full-time job, another course at college, supported training in the workplace, or even an apprenticeship!
