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A Guide to Study Programmes for Parents and Carers

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As GCSE Results Day approaches on Thursday 22 August, school leavers across the country are preparing to take the next step in their educational journey.

However, not everyone is ready for a traditional setting like sixth form or college and may want a different experience from what they’ve had at school. Also, they may not be ready to start employment or begin an Apprenticeship programme immediately after finishing school – sound familiar?

This is where Total People’s study programmes come into play. We’re here to guide you through study programmes, what they are, the support they provide, and how they can help learners transition into employment or further education.
 

What is a Study Programme?

A study programme is more than just a course; it will help learners to develop the skills, knowledge, and behaviours that future employers seek – equipping them to be more independent, and to aid the transition from education to employment.

Through classroom learning and work placement opportunities, they can earn a Level 1 or Level 2 vocational qualification, giving them the life-skills to confidently step into the next phase of their journey, whether that’s further education or employment.
 

Who Can Benefit from Study Programmes?

Our study programmes are tailored for young people aged 16-19 who:

  • Are still exploring their career options
  • Were unable to complete mainstream education
  • Have special educational needs and/or learning disabilities
  • Prefer smaller, more supportive classroom environments
  • Require additional tutor support.

These programmes are also available for young people up to the age of 24 with an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP).
 

The Benefits of a Study Programme

We design our study programmes to meet the unique needs of each learner, ensuring they achieve the best possible outcomes and are well-prepared for their future, providing:

  • Communication skills
  • Self-confidence, self-reliance, and resilience
  • Emotional self-regulation
  • Strong peer networks and positive relationships
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking
  • Maths and English skills and qualifications
  • Career awareness and employability skills
  • Skills for thinking and learning.
     

Hands-On Experience: The Value of Work Placements

There’s no substitute for real-world experience. As part of their study programme, learners will work at least 37 hours in work experience. These placements offer a taste of different careers, helping them move toward their dream job and gain valuable, transferable skills in many professions.
 

Comprehensive Learning Support

We understand that everyone is unique, which is why learners will have a personalised plan. Our welcoming study centres feature small class sizes and offer a nurturing environment where they can grow at their own pace, gaining the skills necessary for a successful future.

Our learners benefit from:

  • A dedicated personal tutor
  • High staff-to-learner support
  • A strong safeguarding culture
  • Close ties with employers
  • Career guidance
  • Inclusive learning centres
  • SEND specialists (if required).
     

Strengthening English and Maths Skills

English and maths are the foundations to every study programme. We know these subjects can be challenging, so we have a specialist team dedicated to helping learners overcome these obstacles. When they finish, they will have gained either an essential GCSE or Functional Skills qualification – a great start to their career!
 

Financial Support to Ease the Journey

Our study programmes are fully funded by the government, and learners aged 16-19 may also apply for financial support with the 16-19 Bursary Fund.

The bursary will help if the household income falls below a certain threshold with the following assistance provided: 

  • Vulnerable Bursary
  • Discretionary Bursary
  • Free School Meals Funding
  • Childcare Funding
  • Hardship Fund.

To find out more, download our Bursary Policy or contact us via StudyProgrammeEnquiries@totalpeople.co.uk
 

Take the Next Step

If you’re interested in learning more about our study programmes and exploring whether they’re the right fit for your young person, please reach out to us at StudyProgrammeEnquiries@totalpeople.co.uk. We’re here to support our learners every step of the way.