Next Steps: Preparing for Further Education, Apprenticeships, and the World of Work

This course is a 12  week course,  delivered in the home to students who are unable to attend on site provision. 

This course can be accredited by the NCFE at Level 1 or Level 2 

Week 1: Introduction to Post-Secondary Pathways

  • Topics Covered:

    • Overview of options after secondary school: further education, apprenticeships, and entering the workforce.

    • Identifying personal interests, strengths, and career goals.

    • Tools for researching different pathways.

Week 2: Self-Assessment and Goal Setting

  • Topics Covered:

    • Self-assessment of skills and personal strengths.

    • Setting achievable academic and career goals.

    • Understanding how to align goals with potential career paths.

Week 3: Identifying Gaps in Functional Skills (Maths)

  • Topics Covered:

    • Importance of Functional Skills Maths for further education and employment.

    • Reviewing key areas such as fractions, percentages, and problem-solving.

    • Conducting an assessment to identify strengths and areas for improvement.

Week 4: Bridging Functional Skills Gaps (Maths)

  • Topics Covered:

    • Practical applications of maths skills in everyday life and work (e.g., budgeting, data interpretation).

    • Targeted practice in weak areas, focusing on real-world scenarios.

Week 5: Identifying Gaps in Functional Skills (English)

  • Topics Covered:

    • Importance of Functional Skills English for further study, work, and communication.

    • Reviewing key areas such as reading comprehension, grammar, and writing.

    • Conducting an assessment to highlight gaps in literacy skills.

Week 6: Bridging Functional Skills Gaps (English)

  • Topics Covered:

    • Developing clear written communication for essays, reports, and job applications.

    • Improving reading comprehension and critical thinking skills.

Week 7: Digital Literacy and Online Tools

  • Topics Covered:

    • Developing essential digital skills for further education and work.

    • Understanding and using online tools for job searches, applications, and remote working.

    • Managing an online presence professionally (social media, LinkedIn).

Week 8: Employability Skills and CV Writing

  • Topics Covered:

    • Key skills employers look for: communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability.

    • How to create a strong CV and cover letter tailored to job applications or apprenticeship opportunities.

Week 9: Interview Skills

  • Topics Covered:

    • Preparing for interviews: common questions, body language, and professionalism.

    • Techniques for answering competency-based questions and showcasing strengths.

    • Importance of interview follow-up and networking.

Week 10: Workplace Etiquette and Professional Behaviour

  • Topics Covered:

    • Understanding workplace expectations: punctuality, communication, and dress code.

    • Dealing with workplace conflicts and building positive working relationships.

    • Introduction to professional etiquette for various work environments.

Week 11: Building Confidence and Overcoming Challenges

  • Topics Covered:

    • Strategies to build self-confidence in interviews, presentations, and the workplace.

    • How to handle rejection, failure, and setbacks.

    • Developing resilience and maintaining motivation in the pursuit of goals.

Week 12: Planning for the Future

  • Topics Covered:

    • Reviewing progress over the course and reflecting on personal development.

    • Finalising applications for college, apprenticeship programs, or job opportunities.

    • Developing a personal action plan for the next steps in further education, training, or employment.

By the end of this course, participants will have improved their Functional Skills in Maths and English, gained vital employability and interview skills, and created a clear, actionable plan for their transition into further education, apprenticeships, or the workforce.