It is clear that the Government now regards all 14-16 vocational provision as Increased Flexibility Programmes (IFP) whether or not they are directly paid for by dedicated IFP project funding. The aims and targets set out by the Government must be taken into account in planning, and provide some indication of the roles expected of partners. In the "Increased Flexibility for 14-16 year olds Programme" a general guide and overview (DfES 2002) the following aims and targets are identified:
- To raise the attainment in national qualifications of participating students;
- To increase their skills and knowledge;
- To improve social learning and development; and
- To increase retention in education and training after 16.
Targets
One third of the young people involved should gain at least one GCSE in a vocational subject at level two, over and above their predicted GCSE outcomes;
One third should gain at least NVQ at level 1, over and above their predicted GCSE outcomes;
Three-quarters of young people should move into further education or training; and Attendance rate should match the average for Key Stage 4.
How realistic targets are for Bury pupils needs further discussion. For three quarters of this group of young people to progress to further education or training, there is a clear emphasis on monitoring attendance, retention and attainment. Clear and appropriate guidance is crucial. Such targets make demands on all partners. Connexions have a key role. Schools will need to support young people through an action plan. The progress file is a potential vehicle to action and monitor progress. Schools must take the lead in monitoring attendance. Schools remain legally responsible. Delivery patterns will of course vary.
Increased Flexibility Project at Bury College
Following the success of the first term of the Increased Flexibility Project, involving Bury College and three High Schools, there are plans to move forward into a second phase. A second phase involving more schools, an increased number of specialist GCSEs and more pupils, has been approved by the Greater Manchester Learning Skills Council.
The project was originally funded by the DfES, now by the LSC and will enable additional year 10 pupils to study over 2 years one of four dual award GCSEs: Business, Engineering, Health and Social Care or Leisure and Tourism or NVQ - Performing Engineering Operations. Most pupils will study for 5 hours a week at the College, but at least one group will be taught by College staff at one of the partner high schools. Additional schools will benefit from associated staff development. If funded places are limited and are offered to pupils from partner schools on a "best match for you" basis. Prospective students are invited with their parents to attend information evenings, following which they will complete formal applications and attend interviews to discuss their choices. Decisions take into account detailed school references.
Length of Programme:
2 years (2 x ½ days per week)
Student Profile:
Pupils who are operating in the A-D GCSE range. Pupils who express a keen interest in one of the vocational areas on offer, and who would benefit from a more practical work related approach to delivery.
Qualification:
Dual Award GCSE
Vocational Pathways:
Excellent in preparation for entry to an allied vocational area.
Vocational Links Provision at Bury College
Other Vocational Links, funded by partner high schools, enable year 10 pupils to work towards units of NVQ Level 1 or similar vocational qualifications in:
- Business Information Technology (BIT)
- Catering
- Engineering
- Hairdressing
Students attend College for 2 hours per week on a Wednesday (Cohort 1 2002 – 2004) or a Monday (Cohort 2 2003 – 2005) for 2 years. Vocational Links are a positive choice for young people who will benefit from practical, hands-on programmes. Prospective students are referred by schools and complete formal applications, following introductory visits in small groups. Decisions again take into account school references and best match for pupils.
Length of Programme:
2 years (½ day per week per year)
Student Profile:
Pupils who would benefit from the practical application of a vocational option and learn best through this hands on approach.
Qualifications:
Units towards NVQ's Level 1
Vocational Pathways:
Excellent preparation for a vocational course in a named area.
Individual Link Programmes (Year 10/11 only) Bury College
For year 10/11 pupils who are at risk of becoming disengaged, individual programmes, funded by partner high schools, can be negotiated. Our objective is to inspire young people with access to learning which matches their skills, abilities and aspirations. This enables students to plan future progression with greater confidence and in many cases has been instrumental in improving attendance and attitudes in school.
This provision is available only to young people who recognise the value of, and can benefit from, the programme, the quality of initial assessment and guidance is crucial for success.
Length of Programme:
Up to 2 years
Student Profile:
Pupils who are no longer able to benefit from the curriculum offered within school at Year 10/11, and who are at risk of disengagement, but who have the potential to benefit from what is being offered.
Vocational Pathways:
For many young people this has provided an early opportunity to explore college life and programmes an offer. Successful completion could lead to a place on a full time college course in an area of the curriculum already explored.
Edexel Entry Level Certificate in Skills for Working Life
6 units are needed to pass the qualification. Either:
Core Units
- Health and Safety
- Information Technology
- Interview Skills
- Assertiveness
- Introduction to skills for work
- Working Together
- Managing Money
- Personal Presentation Skills
- Rights and Responsibilities
Specialist Units
- Hair & Beauty
- Introduction to Hair Care
- Assisting the Hair Stylist
- Introduction to Beauty Therapy
- Assisting the Beauty Therapist
- Health & Social Care
- Caring for Others
- Health Emergencies
- Practical Skills
- Introduction to Brickwork
- Introduction to Painting and Decorating
- Introduction to Joinery
- Introduction to Metalcraft
- Health & Safety in a Workshop
- Introduction to Motor Vehicle Care and Maintenance
- Arts & Media
- Developing Creative Skills
- Developing Media Skills
- Developing Performing Skills
- Performing Arts
- Creative Use of your Computer
- Business
- Introduction to Business Administration
- Introduction to Retail
- Introduction to Business
- Developing Skills in Storing Goods
- Catering
- Introduction to Food Hygiene
- Developing Food Preparation and Cooking Skills
- Developing Food Service Skills
Options
- Your Role at Work
- Setting up an Enterprise Activity
- Producing a Product
- Positive Alternatives to Paid Work Working in the Community
- Introduction to Computers
- Personal Safety
- Improving your Learning
- Dealing with Problems
- Investigating Personal Lifestyles
